Srinagar under drone surveillance ahead of I-Day

SRINAGAR — Security Forces on Thursday conducted a successful trial of drones in Srinagar to keep the city under aerial surveillance while massive frisking operations were started ahead of the Independence Day in the summer capital and elsewhere.

Officials said that police and the CRPF jointly conducted the successful trial of drones at Pratap Park, Srinagar. “Drones will help in better aerial surveillance for the smooth conduct of August 15 functions in Srinagar,” the officials said.

Talking to reporters, Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Police Station Kothibagh Ghulam Mohiudin said that since Independence Day is a few days away, they tested almost 12 drones for the aerial surveillance to keep a close watch on suspects.

“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. “Almost 12 drones are being used for the aerial surveillance to check the possible suspicious movement etc.”

The main I-Day function will be held at S K Stadium Sonwar, Srinagar, where J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha will unfurl the tri-colour. A police official said that the main venue is being sensitized and additional forces are being deployed in and around the Stadium.

He also said that police and CRPF have set up round the clock check-points at various points in Srinagar that include 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 till August 15,” the official said.

He said apart from the drones, Close Circuit Television (CCTV) sets 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.

A senior police official said that a multi-layer security grid is in place for the smooth conduct of I-Day function in Srinagar and elsewhere in Kashmir.

“Police, CRPF and the Army are maintaining a close coordination. Highest level of alertness is being maintained on highways and also on the other roads,” he said, adding that “they are hopeful to see a peaceful I-Day in Kashmir.”