A multi-layer security arrangement coupled with ground and aerial survey has been put in place on the eve of Independence Day to conduct all official functions smoothly and to foil all possible attempts by the militants to disrupt the function, reported a local news agency, Kashmir News Observer (KNO).
The government forces also intensified frisking operations across Kashmir especially in the capital city of Srinagar and on various points on Srinagar-Jammu and Srinagar-Baramulla.
Talking to press on the sidelines of full-dress rehearsal at S K Stadium in Srinagar, Kashmir range Inspector General of Police (IGP) Vijay Kumar said that fool-proof security arrangements have been put in place to ensure smooth conduct of all I-Day functions across the Valley.
“There is ground surveillance and there will be aerial surveillance. Militant presence is there but will thwart all plans of militants that are aimed at disrupting the I-Day functions,” Mr. Kumar said as per KNO, when asked about the preparations in place for smooth conduct of 15 August officials in Srinagar and elsewhere.
He said that all security agencies are maintaining a close synergy. “We have intensified frisking across the Valley especially Srinagar. I urge people to cooperate with the security officials during frisking as it is for their safety,” the IGP said.
Meanwhile, commuters travelling on various roads in Srinagar and on highways alleged that they were subjected to harassment by the government forces’ personnel, who asked them to show identity cards, vehicle papers, and dashboards of vehicles, which led to traffic snarls at various important junctions.
An unnamed police source said that special checkpoints have been set up in Srinagar which is on a high alert and drones too have been pressed into service to keep a close watch on suspects. “Sniffer dogs too are being used in and around the venue and roads leading to SK Stadium Sonwar stand closed for all types of vehicular traffic,” he said—(KNO)
