Ahead of I-Day, security heightened in Srinagar

Just two days ahead of August 15, authorities have put in place elaborate security arrangements across Jammu and Kashmir particularly around Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar, where the main Independence Day function will be held.

Sources told Deccan Herald that in the backdrop of rising infiltration attempts and ceasefire violations from across the border, security agencies do not want to take chance and that’s why security has been heightened across the state.

They said three-tier security arrangements have been made around Bakshi Stadium where Chief Minister Omar Abdullah would unfurl the tricolour. There is a three-tier security ring, CCTV cameras have also  been installed and an anti-sabotage mechanism is in place, sources added.

They said all highrise buildings around the stadium have been occupied by sharpshooters of police and the CRPF to prevent any untoward incident.

Reports said security has also been tightened in other parts of the state and the venues of Independence Day functions at the district headquarters have been handed over to police and other security agencies in advance.

However, a police officer said there was no specific input about any possible militant attack on August 15. “Inputs keep coming but there is no specific input about any militant attack on August 15,” he said.

Meanwhile, a high alert was sounded across the state after a car was hijacked by suspected militants on Srinagar-Jammu national highway as intelligence agencies suspect that the vehicle may be used to carry out an attack on August 15.
DH News Service