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Tense Kashmir awaits another August 15

Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir have been put on maximum alert following intelligence reports that around 1,000 heavily armed militants, who infiltrated from Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, proposed to disrupt the 52nd Independence Day celebrations there.

On Saturday, two powerful improvised explosive devices were recovered in high-security zones in Srinagar, while three mines were found planted on the road in Pulwama.

Officials said the first IED was recovered from Tulsi Bagh. Militants also parked a car with explosives near the Tourist Reception Centre. Three other devices were detected and defused by security forces on the Tral-Awantipora road.

Intelligence reports warned that militants would try to cause blasts and fire indiscriminately during Independence Day functions.

The Border Security Force, Central Reserve Police Force and Jammu and Kashmir police have all intensified foot patrolling in Srinagar city, particularly in areas adjacent to the Bakshi stadium, the venue for the main function. For the past four days, the authorities had closed the roads leading to the stadium. All vehicles are thoroughly searched and the passengers scrutinised before being allowed into Srinagar.

Security forces have taken up positions in and around the Bakshi stadium. It was only last week that a powerful blast shook its grounds.

Many residents of Srinagar have shifted out from areas like Batmalloo, Magarmal Bagh, Dander Khan, Solina, Alochibagh, Haft Chinar, Ram Bagh, Raj Bagh, Kursoo, Gonikhan, Maharaj Bazar, Saria Bala, Wazir Bagh and Jawahar Nagar, owing to excessive security operations.

Meanwhile, the All Party Kashmir Hurriyat Conference has called for a hartal on Sunday.

Most shops and business establishments in civil lines and uptown areas remained closed on Saturday afternoon.

UNI

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