
SRINAGAR: Although militancy threat in Jammu and Kashmir has seen a significant dip in recent years, security agencies are not taking any chances ahead of the Republic Day. Multi-tier security arrangements are in place, including drones and spotters, for the Republic Day functions in the Valley. Yet, despite heightened security, the air is relatively less tense compared to previous years.
IGP Kashmir V K Birdi said multi-tier security arrangements have been put in place in the Valley for the smooth conduct of the R-Day functions.
While the main function in J&K would be held in Maulana Azad Stadium in Jammu where L-G Manoj Sinha would unfurl the tricolour, a significant congregation in the Valley would be held at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar, where Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary would preside over the event. The government has asked its staff to attend R-Day function and ‘beating retreat ceremony’ as a part of their official duty.
The IGP said surveillance in the form of drones and spotters has been put in place. Drones are being used for aerial surveillance in Srinagar and other parts of the Valley.
The security officials are also monitoring the movement of people from control rooms, where they are analysing CCTV footage round-the-clock. “Deep and intricate security arrangements are being made,” the IGP said, adding that security personnel have intensified patrolling, frisking, and checking operations.
Security personnel have also set up temporary checkpoints, where vehicles are being thoroughly searched and commuters and passersby are being frisked.
Vigil in areas surrounding the border have also been intensified. “Police and paramilitary force deployment along the International Border (IB)and Line of Control (LoC) in J&K has been increased to keep watch on movements. Security personnel deployed at the LoC and IB have been put on high alert,” a security official said.
Meanwhile, Additional Director General of the BSF reviewed the security situation and troop deployment along the IB in Kathua district during his visit on Friday, and also discussed operational aspects with field commanders and interacted with troops. The BSF officer’s visit to the border areas comes ahead of R-Day celebrations across the union territory.