*After Delhi blast, security beefed up in Kashmir* *Northern Army Commander visits forward areas, reviews operational readiness*

Srinagar, Nov 12 Following a car bomb blast near Red Fort in New Delhi, which left more than 10 people dead on Monday, authorities on Tuesday beefed up security across Kashmir as a precautionary measure.

A senior security official told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that high-tech surveillance equipment was deployed and area domination exercises were carried out by security personnel.

“The security forces have increased frisking, checkpoint surveillance in major towns and along highways. Sensitive areas in Kashmir are witnessing enhanced security, vehicle checks, security cordons and search operations,” the official said.

He said a strict vigil is being maintained on anti-national elements. Checkpoints have been established in Srinagar and other district headquarters, particularly at key entry points, where random vehicle checks and frisking are being conducted to prevent the movement of subversive elements.

“Security forces also searched residential houses in Habbakadal, Srinagar, during a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO),” the official added, stating that security has been tightened at Railway Stations as well.

At the Navyug Tunnel—the main entry gateway into Kashmir—Kulgam Police and CRPF launched intensive frisking and vehicle checking using high-tech equipment.

SSP Kulgam, Anayat Ali Choudhary, said: “For the last few days, we have been conducting a large-scale crackdown against terrorism. As part of that effort, we launched a special vehicle-checking drive—not only on the highways, which is routine—but at more than 75 locations across the interiors of Kulgam. From LMVs to HMVs, no vehicle is being allowed to pass without checking. We are also using advanced technology to detect if anything is concealed inside a vehicle.”

He said that the security forces are alert and committed to prevent any attempt to disturb peace in the region. “Our priority is the safety and security of the people. Such measures are essential to maintain peace and ensure that no anti-national elements take advantage of the situation,” Choudhary said, adding, “Anyone attempting to disrupt peace will face consequences.”

In a statement, Awantipora Police said, “To ensure the maintenance of peace and public order, Awantipora Police have intensified vehicle checking on key roads across the district.”

The spokesperson said the checking drives are aimed at monitoring the movement of suspicious persons and vehicles and preventing the transportation of contraband or unlawful material. “These measures are part of continuous efforts to strengthen security, enhance public safety and ensure strict adherence to law and order,” he added.

NORTHERN ARMY COMMANDER VISITS FORWARD AREAS

Meanwhile, Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command, visited forward areas in North Kashmir to review the anti-infiltration grid and assess the operational readiness of formations along the Line of Control.

In a post on X, the Northern Commander stated: “While reviewing forward areas, he was briefed on state-of-the-art surveillance systems and next-generation technologies fortifying border security. He lauded the troops for exceptional professionalism, operational excellence and combat readiness to confront emerging threats, reaffirming the Army’s unwavering resolve to defend the nation’s frontiers.”—(KNO)