SRINAGAR, Aug 14: Tricolour rallies were held across Kashmir on Friday and security arrangements were intensified ahead of the 80th Independence Day celebrations.
Officials said a Tiranga bike rally was organised from Kaman Post, the last point on the Line of Control (LoC), to Uri town in Baramulla district. Local youth, police and paramilitary personnel, and civil administration officials participated in the rally.
Similar rallies were held in other parts of the Valley with the participation of students and local residents. Government buildings, key installations, roads and communication towers were illuminated in the colours of the national flag, while the Tricolour was hoisted at several locations, including areas close to the LoC.
Officials said security has been strengthened across Kashmir to ensure peaceful celebrations. Police and other security agencies have intensified checking, frisking and surveillance operations, while random vehicle inspections are being conducted in Srinagar and other districts.
Additional deployments have been made at sensitive locations and around major venues. Drones, metal detectors and sniffer dogs have also been deployed as part of the security arrangements, officials said.
Security forces have stepped up patrolling and area domination exercises in vulnerable areas and around celebration venues.
The main Independence Day function will be held at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar, where Chief Minister Omar Abdullah will preside over the celebrations.
Officials said sharpshooters have been deployed at strategic locations around the stadium, while Central Reserve Police Force personnel and other security agencies have been stationed to secure the venue. (PTI)
