Published: March 18, 2010
Security Arrangements Intensified in Kashmir
By Fayaz Wani
Srinagar, March 18: The security apparatus in Srinagar and other parts of Kashmir have been beefed up after the recent militant attack in the heart of the city centre.
A civilian was killed and four others including two paramilitary soldiers injured in a broad day-light militant attack at Koker Bazar in the heart of city centre on Tuesday.
After the attack, police and paramilitary soldiers have intensified patrolling. They are conducting a surprise frisking and search operations in the Srinagar.
On Thursday, the cops conducted random frisking of vehicles and passersby in city centre and other sensitive areas of Srinagar.
The cops had also placed additional barricades on roads and were screening all the vehicles near the entry points in the evening.
"We have also intensified the security arrangements around the major government, military and police installations. Besides, we have also beefed up security around pickets, bunkers and crowded markets," a senior police officer.
He said a control room has been set up where the CCTV footage is being monitored round the clock and close watch is being kept on the activities of suspected persons.
A paramilitary officer, pleading anonymity, said they have been directed by their senior to maintain a tight vigil to meet any eventuality.
"There are reports that some militants have sneaked into the city centre and may be planning to carry out more strikes in the coming days," he said.
A top police officer, Hemant Kumar Lohia said security apparatus has been further tightened across the city after recent spurt in militant activities.
Fayaz Wani reports on life in Srinagar, Kashmir.