Security forces step up vigil along LoC, border

Srinagar, Aug 11: Security has been stepped up along the Line of Control (LoC) and International Border (IB) in Jammu and Kashmir ahead of Independence Day, with security forces maintaining heightened vigilance to foil any infiltration or other attempts to disrupt the August 15 celebrations.
An official said that the security grid has been strengthened across vulnerable stretches of the LoC, particularly in the Gurez, Uri, Karnah and Tangdhar sectors of North Kashmir and the Sunderbani area of Jammu.
“Additional surveillance and area domination measures have also been put in place along the IB in the Jammu region, where Border Security Force personnel are conducting round-the-clock patrolling and monitoring sensitive locations using electronic and digital surveillance systems,” the official added.
He said troops deployed along the LoC have intensified patrolling and surveillance, with units maintaining close coordination to detect and respond to any suspicious movement.
“Security forces remain fully alert and are prepared to respond swiftly to any infiltration attempt or ceasefire violation,” the official added.
The forces have also deployed a range of modern surveillance and mobility equipment in difficult terrain, including drones and quadcopters fitted with high-resolution cameras and night-vision capabilities, he said.
Smart fencing and other electronic surveillance systems have been installed at vulnerable points to strengthen the existing physical barriers and improve the ability of troops to detect movement along the border.
In addition, rapid response teams and specialised units have been kept ready to move quickly to sensitive locations, while bulletproof and all-terrain vehicles are being used to facilitate troop movement in mountainous and difficult terrain.
The security forces have also been conducting exercises to sharpen their response to possible infiltration attempts and attacks on forward positions, officials said.
Recently, troops in the Sunderbani sector carried out drills simulating infiltration and attacks on fortified positions, testing coordination, firepower and rapid-response capabilities.
“Continuous surveillance and area domination are being maintained to ensure the security of border areas and the safety of civilians living close to the LoC,” another official said.
The heightened security measures come ahead of the August 15 celebrations, when security agencies across Jammu and Kashmir have been placed on high alert to ensure peaceful and incident-free functions.
The Jammu and Kashmir Police have also intensified checking and surveillance in border areas, besides strengthening security at key entry and exit points, officials said.
Security agencies are maintaining close coordination and sharing inputs to prevent any attempt to exploit the heightened movement and security activity associated with Independence Day celebrations, they added. (KNO)