Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Aug 12: Security Forces today conducted a successful trial of drones in Srinagar to keep the City under aerial surveillance while massive frisking operations are going on ahead of the Independence Day.
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At Pratap Park in Srinagar, a police team from Kothibagh Police Station and CRPF tested at least 12 drones, which will be used for aerial surveillance in different parts of the city. “Air surveillance by drones will continue until Independence Day on 15th August. “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,” Ghulam Mohi-ud- Din, SDPO Kothibagh told reporters.
“The drones will also be used in and around this year’s main celebration venue, the Sheri Kashmir Stadium in Srina-gar’s Sonwar”, he said.
The drones were tested within a two-kilometer radius of the Lal Chowk region, he said adding “today was a successful trial.”
The officials said that aerial surveillance aids in maintaining a close eye on suspected elements. “It also contributes to the multi-layer security cover put in place on the occasion of the country’s Independence and Republic days,” an official said.
The main I-Day function will be held at S K Stadium Sonwar, Srinagar, where 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 Shankaracharya Hills till August 15,” the official said.
The official said 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”, he added.
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