Independence Day Security Tightened, All Celebration Venues Secured: IGP V.K. Birdi
Srinagar: Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir Zone, V.K. Birdi, on Tuesday said all venues designated for Independence Day celebrations across Kashmir have been fully secured, with extensive security arrangements in place for peaceful and smooth celebrations. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Birdi made the remarks after visiting the Balidan Stambh at Pratap Park, where he said Independence Day is ultimately a celebration for the people and that the responsibility of police and security agencies is to provide a safe environment for everyone.
“August 15 is the people’s function,” Birdi said, urging people to participate wholeheartedly and celebrate the occasion peacefully.
Omar Abdullah to Hoist National Flag at Bakshi Stadium
The main Independence Day function in Kashmir will be held at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar, where Chief Minister Omar Abdullah will hoist the National Flag, inspect the ceremonial parade and take the salute.
The event is expected to be attended by senior civil and police officers, security personnel, students, cultural groups and members of the public.
Multi-Layered Security at Bakshi Stadium
Officials said Bakshi Stadium has been placed under comprehensive multi-layered security cover ahead of the celebrations.
Anti-sabotage teams, along with bomb disposal squads and sniffer dog units, have been conducting sanitisation exercises at the stadium and nearby areas.
Entry to the venue will be strictly regulated through designated gates. Visitors will have to undergo identity verification, baggage screening and frisking before being allowed inside.
Security Strengthened Across Kashmir
Security arrangements have also been increased at district headquarters and other venues hosting official Independence Day programmes across the Valley.
The Jammu and Kashmir Police, Central Armed Police Forces and other security agencies have been deployed in adequate numbers. Quick Reaction Teams have also been positioned at strategic locations to respond to emergencies.
Authorities have activated CCTV surveillance at key venues, while drones will be used for aerial monitoring of crowds and surrounding areas.
Additional security personnel have been deployed for rooftop protection, area domination exercises and round-the-clock patrolling at vulnerable locations.
Checking Intensified at Entry and Exit Points
Security agencies have also intensified vehicle checking and frisking at major entry and exit points.
Additional nakas have been established across Srinagar and other districts, while security has been strengthened around:
- Government offices
- Vital installations
- Airports
- Railway stations
- Bus terminals
- Major highways
- Crowded public places
Additional checkpoints have also been established along major highways and strategic routes leading towards Srinagar and district headquarters.
Intelligence Agencies Maintain Close Coordination
Officials said surveillance and intelligence gathering have been strengthened ahead of August 15.
Security and intelligence agencies are working closely to maintain constant vigilance and respond quickly to any potential threat.
With Independence Day approaching, authorities said the extensive arrangements are aimed at ensuring peaceful, secure and incident-free celebrations across Kashmir.
