Security beefed up in Kashmir ahead of Aug 15

Srinagar: Ahead of August 15 occasion on Wednesday, security arrangements have been beefed in the Kashmir valley and summer capital Srinagar.
Stringent security measures have been put in place. The police is alert, director general of police (DGP) S P Vaid told reporters here. The police and other forces will ensure that the people celebrate I-Day without any fear, Vaid said.
Referring to Sunday’s Batamaloo gunfight, the DGP said police was alert and had information on the presence of militants in the area.
The militants managed to escape because of the congested locality, but they are injured. We did not want any collateral damage, he said. A police official said huge number of security men have been stationed near important function areas. The venues have also been sealed, the official said.
The Sher-e-Kashmir Stadium in Srinagar, where Governor N N Vohra will unfurl the Tricolour as part of the main Independence Day event, has been turned into a virtual fortress, the official said.
He added that the security apparatus is not taking any chances after yesterday’s gunfight with militants. The usual security drill is being followed, but some extra measures have been put in place to ensure the day passes peacefully, he said.
A number of check-points have been set up at various junctions and main entry-points to Srinagar, further vehicles are being checked routinely, the official said.
Meanwhile, a full-dress rehearsal for the August 15 celebration was held Monday at SK Cricket Stadium. Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Baseer Ahmad Khan, unfurled the tricolour, inspected the parade and took salute at the march past, a police spokesman said.
He said top officials from the civil and police administration were present for the dress rehearsal.