Srinagar: Stringent security arrangements have been made in Kashmir to ensure incident-free Independence Day celebrations, with a multi-tier security set put in place at the venue of the main function here.
A full dress rehearsal was held on Tuesday at the Bakshi Stadium where Divisional Commissioner (Div Com) Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri hoisted the national flag, inspected parade contingents and took a salute at march past from the parade commander and various contingents.
The full dress rehearsal exhibited the overall preparation of the administration regarding the celebration of Independence Day at the main venue in Kashmir division.
Addressing the gathering, the Div Com highlighted the meticulous arrangements made for the participants of I-Day at Bakhshi Stadium including seating arrangements, facilities for drinking water, sanitation and toilets.
He also spoke about developmental achievements, increasing road connectivity, supply of electricity to Gurez through power grid, progress of Jal Shakti schemes, online services and JK Samadhan Portal to monitor grievances.
The Divisional Commissioner said the enthusiasm among the general populace was high ahead of the Independence Day celebrations.
“There is no need for special permission to witness the Independence Day function at Bakshi Stadium. Everyone is welcome and the entry is free,” Bhiduri said.
“We have made foolproof security arrangements for Independence Day celebrations. We keep all possibilities in mind while drafting a security plan to ensure that everything remains peaceful,” Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir Zone, V K Birdi told reporters here after the full dress rehearsal.
The IGP said a multi-tier security set has been put in place at Bakshi Stadium, the venue of main Independence Day function in Jammu and Kashmir, while regulatory barricades have been established at several places as part of the security drill.
Birdi said the adversary will try to carry out subversive activity but the security grid also prepares a calibrated plan to ensure that inimical elements do not succeed.
Responding to a query that a challenging situation has emerged in J&K of late given the terrorist actions including the recent one in Udhampur district, the IGP said the security setup is designed keeping this scenario in mind to ensure the pre-arranged plans stay sound.
Regarding the ongoing encounter in Kokernag area of south Kashmir, Birdi said the operation is still underway and has not concluded as yet.
“The fact that we consistently receive inputs about such activities well in advance allows us to conduct such operations. Security measures are tightened in anticipation of the attempts by adversaries to undermine peace,” the IGP said, in response to a question about terrorists breaking into sections of south Kashmir from the Pir-Panchal range.
