Houseboats searched in Srinagar

Srinagar, Feb 25: Joint forces on Wednesday launched a cordon and search operation in parts of Srinagar ahead of the scheduled visit of the Vice President of India to the Valley.
Officials said a joint team of police and Central Reserve Police Force personnel carried out searches in Abiguzar and Band House areas of the city as part of area domination and sanitization measures. The operation was conducted as a precautionary step in view of the high-profile visit.
The Vice President, CP Radakrishnan, is scheduled to arrive in Srinagar on Thursday to participate in the convocation ceremony at Kashmir University.
Authorities said security arrangements across Srinagar, particularly in and around Dal Lake and adjoining localities, have been significantly strengthened. CRPF personnel have been deployed in sensitive areas, and additional checkpoints have been set up to regulate movement.
Security has also been intensified along routes leading to Kashmir University, with frisking and vehicle checks being carried out at multiple points. Surveillance has been enhanced to ensure smooth conduct of the event.
Officials said the measures are aimed at maintaining law and order and ensuring a secure environment during the Vice President’s visit. [KNT]