In keeping with the convention of security protocols due to heightened vulnerability, security forces have intensified sanitisation and area domination exercises across Kashmir ahead of Republic Day to ensure smooth and peaceful celebrations in the valley.
Random frisking of vehicles is being carried out at all major intersections in Srinagar city and elsewhere in the valley to keep a check on any suspicious movement, the officials said on Sunday. In fact entire UT of Jammu and Kashmir has been placed on high alert ahead of Republic Day celebrations, with security forces launching intensified operations across all districts of the Union Territory, particularly in areas close to the Line of Control (LoC).
Search operations and area domination exercises have also been started around the venues where Republic Day will be celebrated, they said. Officials said heightened vigilance is being maintained following multiple reports of drone activity along the LoC in recent days. Drone sightings have been reported from Jammu region districts including Rajouri, Poonch and Samba, as well as from several areas in the Kashmir Valley. Security agencies said the movement of drones has raised serious security concerns, prompting forces to strengthen surveillance and counter-infiltration measures along the border.
“In view of recent drone activity, forces have enhanced monitoring and patrolling in all sensitive LoC sectors,” an official said, adding that ground troops, aerial surveillance and technical units have been pressed into service to prevent any possible infiltration or sabotage attempts.As part of the heightened security grid, joint mock drills are being conducted at all major railway stations across Kashmir. These exercises, involving multiple security agencies, are aimed at testing preparedness and response mechanisms to deal with any potential terror threat.
As for the Republic Day celebrations, the main function in Kashmir will be held at Bakshi stadium where stringent security arrangements have been made, the officials said.Police and paramilitary personnel have been deployed in the city and other district headquarters while checkpoints have been established at various places in Srinagar, especially at the entry points of the city and other districts, the officials said.
The security around the venues of Republic Day functions in the valley, including the stadium, has been beefed up, and a multi-layer security apparatus has been put in place around the venues, they said.Security agencies have been asked to remain alert and not allow anyone to disturb law and order, or vitiate peace, the officials added.
Sniffer dogs and metal detectors have been pressed into action to ensure that the terrorists are not able to carry out any IED explosions ahead of the Republic Day.The security agencies are not leaving anything to chance as mock security drills have been conducted at various places in the valley to meet any eventuality, they said.
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