SRINAGAR: The Additional Director General of Police Kashmir Zone, Vijay Kumar, visited South Kashmir’s Anantnag district on Monday to assess the security measures in place for the smooth conduct of SANJY-2023. Given the significance of SANJY and the security challenges it presents, the ADGP Kashmir’s visit aimed to evaluate the preparations and provide necessary guidance to the officers.
The meeting was attended by GoC Victor Force, IG CRPF, IG BSF, Sector Commander Sector 1 & 3, DIG SKR Anantnag, DIG CRPF Awantipora, DIG CRPF Anantnag, DIG ITBP, SSP Anantnag, SSP Kulgam, SSP Awantipora, CO NDRF, and other senior officers. The report submitted by the joint team of the yatra track was also discussed. The ADGP directed all SSsP and COs of CAPFs to conduct mock drills and joint briefings on the spot.
Recognising the vital role of public safety, Vijay Kumar emphasised the need to prioritise the well-being of pilgrims as well as the general public throughout the Yatra. He instructed the officers to ensure that all necessary measures are taken to guarantee a secure and hassle-free experience for the pilgrims. During the meeting, the ADGP Kashmir directed the officers to maintain close coordination and demonstrate better synergy among themselves to ensure the safety of the general public.
Security of the routes chosen by the pilgrims was discussed in detail, and it was entrusted upon the officers to strengthen the security grid along the National Highway, particularly at vulnerable points, to prevent any untoward incidents. Moreover, he instructed the officers to enhance surveillance and gather intelligence inputs regarding possible terrorist threats. He also directed them to intensify motor vehicle checkpoints (MVCP) and night dominations along the NHW. Several Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) were reviewed. It was decided to deploy Anti-Drone equipment of the Army at sensitive yatra camps and locations.
The ADGP Kashmir advised the participating officers to employ modern technology drone monitoring systems to closely monitor their respective areas of jurisdiction. Furthermore, the officers were instructed to gather actionable intelligence information about terrorists and their associates. He also directed them to keep a vigilant eye on rumour mongers who are intent on spreading false and fabricated news to incite panic among the masses on social media platforms, and take legal action against such individuals. He also stressed the importance of managing alternative routes at congested junctions for the smooth movement of commuters and the convenience of the general public.
At the beginning of the meeting, the ADGP Kashmir was briefed by the officers regarding the security arrangements put in place for the safe and smooth conduct of the Yatra. He commended the joint efforts made by the Police and security forces and expressed confidence in their ability to effectively handle any security challenges. The functioning of the already established joint control rooms for the convenience of pilgrims was also discussed. He instructed all officers to ensure no inconvenience is caused to the general public during the Yatra. (GNS)
