Houseboats Searched on Jhelum as Srinagar Steps Up Republic Day Security | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: As part of heightened security arrangements ahead of Republic Day on January 26, police conducted searches at various houseboats along the Jhelum in Srinagar on Tuesday.

A police official said that the operation was carried out by Kothibagh Police along with personnel from the Central Reserve Police Force (132 Battalion) and the Sashastra Seema Bal (10th Battalion). The searches were aimed at strengthening security and preventing any untoward incident during the upcoming national celebrations.

The houseboats located in the Jhelum area of Srinagar were thoroughly checked, including verification of records and occupants. Officials said the exercise was part of a wider security drill being carried out across Kashmir.

The searches follow similar inspections recently conducted at hotels and homestays across the Valley, including Srinagar. During those checks, establishments were inspected for compliance with statutory norms and security guidelines.

The official said the intensified measures are focused on ensuring public safety and maintaining peace. Additional security personnel have been deployed in vulnerable areas, while night patrols have also been stepped up as part of the preventive strategy.

In a related development, police have taken action against unregistered homestays, hotels and guest houses operating in Srinagar. Officials said fines were imposed and preventive action initiated against violators found operating without proper registration or in violation of prescribed norms.

Authorities said such measures will continue in the coming days as part of the overall security plan for Republic Day celebrations. [KNT]