Srinagar, Dec 31: With New Year celebrations approaching and a surge in tourist arrivals expected, security across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has been significantly tightened.
Authorities have stepped up vigilance at key tourist destinations, major roadways, and along the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border as a precautionary measure.
Senior police officials said there were no specific inputs about threats but emphasised that comprehensive arrangements have been put in place to ensure peaceful celebrations. “There are no credible inputs regarding the movement of inimical elements. However, as a precaution, enhanced security measures have been implemented across the UT to maintain peace,” a senior police official said, adding that no attempt to disturb normalcy would be tolerated.
A multi-layered security grid has been established at prominent tourist locations across the Kashmir Valley. Officials said additional deployments have been made at hotels, public spaces and areas likely to witness large gatherings. In Srinagar, security checks have been intensified at entry and exit points, major intersections and tourist hubs, including Dal Lake. Joint teams of the J&K Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) are carrying out vehicle checks, document verification and increased patrolling.
Surveillance has also been enhanced at venues hosting New Year events, with additional checkpoints set up and intensified patrolling along vital road corridors to prevent any untoward incident. “Vehicles are being thoroughly checked at all major entry and exit points of Srinagar, and a high level of alertness is being maintained at key tourist destinations,” officials said.
Last week, Inspector General of Police, Kashmir Zone, V K Birdi reviewed the security preparedness during a high-level meeting at the Police Control Room, Kashmir. He directed that all arrangements be completed in advance and stressed heightened checking at naka points, particularly during night hours, along with increased vigilance at sensitive locations.
With tourist footfall expected to rise during the New Year period, officials said coordination among various security agencies has been strengthened to ensure swift response to any situation, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to providing a safe and secure environment for residents and visitors alike.