Ahead of the Republic Day celebrations, security arrangements have been significantly strengthened along the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) in the Qazigund area of south Kashmir’s Kulgam district to ensure public safety and maintain law and order.
On Thursday, Kulgam Police intensified checking and frisking operations at multiple points along the busy highway, which serves as the lifeline connecting Kashmir with the rest of the country. The heightened security measures are part of a broader strategy to prevent any untoward incidents in the run-up to January 26.
Officials said that the frisking drive was led by the Station House Officer (SHO) Qazigund, Syed Nazir Indrabi, under the supervision of the Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Highway and the Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Qazigund. The operation is being carried out as per the directions of Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kulgam, Anayat Ali Choudhary.
Police personnel were seen stopping vehicles, verifying documents, and conducting thorough checks of passengers and baggage. Additional checkpoints have been established, and surveillance has been enhanced to keep a close watch on vehicular movement, especially along sensitive stretches of the highway.
“Close vigil is being kept on the overall situation in the district. Senior police officers are personally monitoring the security scenario to ensure a safe and secure environment for the Republic Day celebrations,” an official said. He added that the police are working in coordination with other security agencies to maintain peace and prevent any security breaches.
Locals have been advised to cooperate with security forces during the checks and to report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station. Authorities have reiterated that these measures are precautionary and aimed solely at ensuring the safety of citizens during the national celebrations.
The intensified security drive is expected to continue in the coming days as part of the standard Republic Day security protocol across the region.
