Srinagar, Aug 11: Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir Zone, V.K. Birdi, on Tuesday said all venues designated for the Independence Day celebrations across Kashmir have been fully secured, with elaborate security arrangements put in place to ensure peaceful and smooth conduct of the national event.
Addressing reporters after visiting Balidan Stambh at Pratap Park, Birdi described Independence Day as "the people's celebration" and said the responsibility of the police and other security agencies is to provide a safe and secure environment for the public to participate in the festivities.
"August 15 is the people's function. The role of the police and security agencies is to organise and secure the celebrations. We want people to participate wholeheartedly and celebrate the occasion in a peaceful atmosphere," the IGP said.
The main Independence Day function in the Valley will be held at the historic 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 witness participation from senior civil and police officers, security personnel, students, cultural groups and members of the public.
Officials said Bakshi Stadium has been placed under a comprehensive multi-layered security cover. Anti-sabotage teams, assisted by bomb disposal squads and sniffer dog units, have been conducting extensive sanitisation exercises at the venue and surrounding areas. Access to the stadium will be strictly regulated through designated entry gates, with visitors required to undergo identity verification, baggage screening and frisking before entry.
Security arrangements have also been strengthened at all district headquarters and other venues hosting official Independence Day functions across Kashmir. Jammu and Kashmir Police, Central Armed Police Forces and other security agencies have been deployed in adequate strength, with Quick Reaction Teams positioned at strategic locations to respond swiftly to any emergency.
A network of CCTV cameras has been activated at key venues, while drones will provide real-time aerial surveillance to monitor crowd movement and enhance situational awareness. Additional personnel have been deployed for rooftop security, area domination exercises and round-the-clock patrolling in vulnerable locations.
Authorities have intensified vehicle checking and frisking at major entry and exit points, while nakas have been established across Srinagar and other districts. Security has also been enhanced around vital installations, government offices, airports, railway stations, bus terminals and crowded public places.
Officials said surveillance and intelligence gathering have been further strengthened, with security and intelligence agencies working in close coordination to maintain constant vigil and respond promptly to any potential threat. Additional checkpoints have also been established along major highways and strategic routes leading to Srinagar and district headquarters.
The heightened security measures come as Jammu and Kashmir prepares to celebrate Independence Day, with officials expressing confidence that the elaborate arrangements will ensure peaceful, secure and incident-free celebrations across the Valley.
