Srinagar decked up, security beefed for mega anti-drug Padyatra

Srinagar, May 2: With the Padyatra led by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha set to take place on Sunday (tomorrow), Srinagar has been fully decked up, while security has been significantly beefed up, with a coordinated effort ensuring foolproof arrangements across the city.
The march, part of the nationwide ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan’, is expected to witness unprecedented participation, particularly from youth, students, civil society groups, and government officials.
Officials said that a comprehensive security grid has been activated by the Jammu and Kashmir Police in coordination with paramilitary forces. Anti-sabotage checks, area domination, frisking, and heightened surveillance have been put in place, especially along vulnerable stretches and gathering points.
Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) and emergency units have been deployed strategically to respond to any contingency. The entire route has undergone sanitisation and security clearance.
The traffic department has rolled out a detailed mobility plan, including diversions, designated parking zones, and restricted entry for heavy vehicles in certain areas. Commuters have been advised to plan their travel in advance and adhere to official advisories to avoid inconvenience.
Health services have been put on high alert, with ambulances, mobile medical units, and healthcare personnel stationed at regular intervals. Fire and emergency services, along with disaster response teams, will remain on standby throughout the duration of the march.
Municipal teams have carried out extensive cleanliness drives, road repairs, and installation of public facilities such as drinking water stations and mobile toilets. Volunteers and local organisations have been engaged to assist authorities in crowd facilitation and awareness efforts.
Prominent locations, including Lal Chowk and adjoining routes, have been adorned with banners and hoardings carrying anti-drug messages, giving the city a campaign-like atmosphere ahead of the event.
Officials added that educational institutions, sports bodies, and youth clubs have been mobilised to ensure wide participation, turning the Padyatra into a people’s movement against the drug menace.
“The administration has urged citizens to actively take part in the march and contribute towards building a drug-free society. Come, join and walk with us in tomorrow’s Padyatra,” an official appealed, describing the initiative as a united step towards safeguarding the future of Kashmir’s youth. (KNO)