Security tightened across Kashmir

Srinagar, Dec 19: Security has been tightened across Kashmir with the deployment of additional forces, the establishment of extra checkpoints, and an increase in joint area domination exercises by the Police and other security agencies to maintain law and order and thwart any anti-national activities.

Security has been significantly stepped up with Police and security forces intensifying frisking, vehicle checks, and surveillance along the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway to thwart any attempt by inimical elements.

Senior officials in the security establishment here said that intensified vehicle and individual checks were being conducted at strategic locations, while coordinated patrols and area domination exercises had been intensified in sensitive and vulnerable areas.

“The measures are precautionary in nature and aimed at ensuring public safety and preventing any untoward incidents. Authorities have appealed to the public to cooperate with security forces during the heightened security arrangements,” a senior officer said.

Since Friday morning, vehicles in Srinagar have been subjected to thorough checks at additional security checkpoints set up at key locations across the city.

Two-wheelers were stopped for document verification, while occupants of cars and other vehicles were frisked as part of enhanced security measures.

The intensified checking caused brief slowdowns in traffic at some places, but remained orderly.

Officials said the increased vigil is part of a preventive security exercise, aimed at maintaining law and order and preventing any untoward incident in the city.

“These measures are precautionary and meant to ensure the safety of the general public,” he said.

Similar reports of heightened alertness and extra vigilance were received from several districts across Kashmir, with additional checkpoints, night patrols, and surveillance activities being carried out in both urban and rural areas.

Security forces were seen conducting random checks of vehicles and individuals, particularly along major roads and sensitive locations.

In south Kashmir’s Kulgam district, the Police have intensified vehicle checking and surveillance along the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway (NH-44).

Officials said the drive is aimed at deterring unlawful elements, checking suspicious movement, and ensuring the smooth and secure movement of traffic on the vital highway that serves as Kashmir’s main lifeline.

“We have enhanced naka checking and patrolling on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway to thwart any attempt at anti-national activities. The focus is on preventing the movement of suspicious elements and ensuring the safety and security of commuters,” a Police official from Kulgam said.

Reports of intense frisking were also reported from Ramban and other places along the NH-44.

Police officials said that security arrangements had been strengthened in coordination with other security agencies, with special attention to vulnerable stretches of the highway and crowded areas.

Surveillance teams have also been deployed to monitor movement and gather real-time intelligence inputs.

Authorities have appealed to commuters to carry valid identification documents and cooperate with security personnel.

“Public cooperation is essential for the success of these measures. These steps are taken in the interest of peace and security,” the Police spokesman said.

The intensified security measures come amid ongoing efforts by security agencies to maintain stability in Kashmir and prevent any disruption to normal life.

Officials said such drives would continue as required, based on security assessments and ground conditions.