Srinagar: Police on Thursday carried out trial of drones to be used for aerial surveillance on August 15, which marks the 75th Independence Day, in Srinagar.
Police said at least 10 high-end drones will be used in and around the main venue for the celebrations this year to be held at the Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium in Srinagar’s Sonwar.
According to news agency KNO, a police team from police station Kothibagh along with experts tested the drones at Pratap Park in city centre Lal Chowk.
The police team was led by SP headquarters, Mohammad Arif Shah. Officials said that the drones were successfully tested within 2 km radius of Lal Chowk area.
“We have ten latest drones that will be used for aerial surveillance in and around the main venue for Independence Day in Srinagar,” a police official privy to the development said.
“Aerial surveillance helps keep a close watch on the suspects. It also helps to further strengthen the multi-layer security cover that is put in place on the occasion of Independence and Republic Day,” the official said.
Talking to reporters, Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Kothibagh, Ghulam Mohiudin said “there are sensitive areas in and around Lal Chowk that will remain under aerial surveillance till August 15 function passes off. The areas under surveillance include MA Road, Residency Road, Bund, Polo View, Maisuma and other adjoining areas of Lal Chowk,” he said.
According to news agency KNO, he also said that police and CRPF have set up check-points at various places in Srinagar including at Jehangir Chowk, Dalgate, M A Road, Sonwar, Pantha Chowk, and other adjoining areas to keep a close watch on the suspects.
“Intensive frisking operations are being launched in Srinagar. We urge people to cooperate with the security forces,” the official said.
He said apart from the drones CCTVs have been activated across Srinagar as part of the security drill. “Sharp shooters will remain stationed on tall buildings near the main venue and also at the Sulaiman Hills till August 15,” the official said.
