Police, CRPF carry out searches in Srinagar parts

Srinagar, Jan 25: Ahead of Republic Day celebrations, security forces on Saturday intensified security arrangements across several parts of Srinagar, with extensive checking and surveillance operations carried out in Habbakadal, Fateh Kadal, and adjacent areas.
Officials said the operations were conducted by police teams from Khanyar, Kothi Bagh and Shaheed Gunj divisions, assisted by personnel of the Central Reserve Police Force. The coordinated exercise was aimed at ensuring a safe and incident-free Republic Day in the city.
During the operations, security personnel carried out door-to-door checking in residential localities, verifying identities and gathering necessary information as part of preventive security measures. Vehicles and pedestrians were also stopped at multiple checkpoints, where thorough frisking and document verification were conducted.
Authorities said drone surveillance was deployed in sensitive and congested localities to monitor movement and strengthen aerial vigilance. The use of drones was intended to enhance real-time monitoring and assist ground teams during the checking process.
Senior police officers supervised the operations, ensuring that standard operating procedures were followed while minimizing inconvenience to the general public. Officials described the exercise as precautionary, stating that such measures are routinely adopted ahead of major national events.
Inhabitants of the affected areas reported increased security presence over the past few days, particularly in crowded localities and along key routes. While brief delays were reported due to checking, locals largely cooperated with security personnel during the exercise.
Officials added that similar security measures are being implemented in other parts of Srinagar and elsewhere in the Valley as part of a comprehensive security plan for Republic Day. [KNT]