Independence Day: Unprecedented security in place

Srinagar, Aug 12: Extraordinary security measures have been put in place across Jammu and Kashmir to prevent any untoward incident on Independence Day.

Authorities have left no stone unturned in ensuring the safety and smooth conduct of the celebrations.

Officials said that in Srinagar, the main function will be held at Bakshi Stadium where Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha will preside over the Independence Day function.

Thousands of people are expected to attend the function.

In Jammu, LG’s Advisor R R Bhatnagar is scheduled to oversee the celebrations at M A Stadium.

Officials said that security forces have intensified their vigilance, particularly in Srinagar, which is under a heavy security blanket.

Frisking operations have been ramped up at various locations, especially along key routes like the Srinagar-Jammu and Srinagar-Baramulla highways.

Both armed personnel and undercover security officials have been deployed in and around the event venues to monitor and neutralise any potential threats.

Senior Police officials said that meticulous planning had gone into the security arrangements to ensure a safe and peaceful Independence Day.

“We have finalised all security protocols, and the main venue, where the chief guest will address the gathering, has been thoroughly sanitised,” they said.

The senior Police officials said that high-rise buildings surrounding the venues in Srinagar and Jammu had been occupied by sharpshooters from the Police and the paramilitary Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), who are on a high alert to prevent any possible security breaches.

“Ground surveillance teams have been deployed alongside aerial surveillance units, ensuring a multi-layered security approach,” they said.

The security officials said that a combination of human and technical surveillance had been employed to secure the events.

“We are using both human intelligence and advanced technical means to monitor the situation closely,” they said.

Commuters travelling through Srinagar and Jammu are subject to thorough frisking and identity verification at multiple checkpoints, adding another layer of security.

In Srinagar, security has been heightened with the city being divided into various sectors and zones, each with an adequate deployment of forces.

Anti-sabotage teams are conducting checks at the venue, and searches are ongoing in the surrounding areas.

“Round-the-clock patrolling is in place, and our teams are using both human and technical resources to monitor the movement of people within the city and its outskirts,” the Police officials said.

Similar security measures are being enforced in Jammu and other district headquarters across J&K, reflecting the administration’s commitment to ensuring a peaceful Independence Day celebration.