Security has been beefed up in Srinagar and other places in Kashmir ahead of Republic Day. Forces have been deployed in massive numbers around the venues of the January 26 functions across the Valley.

Random checking of vehicles and frisking of passengers is being done at several places, said officials.

The presence of security forces around vital installations in and around the city as well as other district headquarters has been enhanced.

Security has also been strengthened around the venues for the Republic Day functions, including Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Stadium, where the main function in the Valley would take place.

The officials said a thick layer of security has been thrown around the venue – a few kilometres from the Lal Chowk city centre here – and the area has been sanitised.

Vijay Kumar, Inspector General of Police, Kashmir, said the situation was under control and expressed confidence that the day would pass off incident-free. He said a multi-layered security had been put in place.

The IGP said the security forces were launching cordon and search operations also “wherever there is some suspicion” about the presence of militants. Security forces have been asked to remain alert and more check-points have been set up in the city.

The authorities sealed the road stretch from Radio Kashmir Crossing to Sonwar Crossing for the first half of the day on Sunday as full-dress rehearsals took place at the stadium, the officials said. — PTI

Courtesy: Daily Tribune: 24th January 2021