J&K on maximum alert ahead of Independence Day

Srinagar, Aug 12: Security has been strengthened across Jammu and Kashmir ahead of Independence Day celebrations, with police, Army and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) intensifying surveillance, vehicle checking, frisking, area domination and search operations.
A senior security official said that security arrangements have been particularly stepped up in sensitive areas, including major towns, district headquarters, vital installations, vulnerable locations and key entry and exit points, as the administration and security agencies prepare for the national celebrations.
He said a multi-layered security grid has been activated across all districts, with additional deployments made at important locations and around venues where Independence Day functions will be held.
“Security personnel are maintaining heightened vigil to prevent any attempt to disrupt the celebrations,” the official said, adding, “Security forces have also intensified area domination and patrolling, while search operations and sanitisation exercises are being carried out in vulnerable areas.”
Drones and other surveillance equipment are being used to monitor sensitive locations and event venues, while sniffer dogs are being deployed for anti-sabotage checks and searches, said another official.
“Roadside checkpoints have been strengthened at strategic locations, with security personnel conducting random as well as targeted checks of vehicles and individuals to detect any suspicious movement,” the official
The Line of Control (LoC) and International Border (IB) are also under heightened vigil, with the Army and BSF maintaining close surveillance along the frontiers and strengthening coordination with other security agencies.
Senior officers have reviewed the security arrangements and operational preparedness in border districts, officials said.
In north Kashmir, the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) NKR chaired a security-cum-coordination conference at District Police Lines, Baramulla, attended by senior officers of the Police, Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB and other security formations.
The meeting reviewed the overall security preparedness and stressed close inter-agency coordination, effective area domination, enhanced vigilance, seamless communication and timely sharing of actionable intelligence.
Similarly, DIG South Kashmir Range Javid Iqbal Matoo chaired a security review meeting at the District Police Office in Anantnag, attended by senior officers of the Army, CAPFs and police, including SSPs of districts under the South Kashmir Range.
The meeting reviewed the prevailing security situation, deployment arrangements, surveillance, naka checking, protection of vital installations and security of sensitive locations.
The DIG directed officers to maintain heightened alertness, intensify patrolling and checking, closely monitor the security environment and ensure a swift response to any emerging threat.
Security agencies said the measures are aimed at ensuring peaceful Independence Day celebrations while facilitating maximum public participation across J&K. (KNO)