From surveillance to traffic control, Kashmir’s multi-layer security plan takes shape ahead of International Film Festival
Srinagar: The valley is preparing for a major cultural event, but behind the scenes, security agencies are working on a detailed blueprint to ensure every moment of the upcoming International Film Festival passes smoothly and safely.
Inspector General of Police, Kashmir Zone, Sujit Kumar, chaired a high-level security review meeting at Police Control Room (PCR) Kashmir, where senior officials from police, paramilitary forces, intelligence agencies and civil departments discussed security arrangements, deployment strategies and emergency response plans for the festival.
The meeting comes as authorities focus on creating a secure atmosphere for filmmakers, artists, visitors, dignitaries and local residents expected to participate in the international event.
The upcoming film festival has brought multiple security and administrative agencies together to create a coordinated security framework. During the meeting, IGP Kashmir reviewed overall preparedness, venue security measures, deployment plans and coordination mechanisms required for the successful conduct of the festival.
Senior officials from Jammu and Kashmir Police, CRPF, BSF, ITBP, SSB, intelligence agencies, traffic departments, tourism officials and other concerned departments participated in the discussion.
The presence of officials from multiple security organisations highlighted the importance of maintaining a strong and coordinated security network during the high-profile event.
The security review focused on several critical areas, including protection of festival venues, access control systems, surveillance arrangements, crowd management and emergency response mechanisms.
Authorities discussed detailed deployment strategies to ensure smooth movement of participants, guests and visitors while maintaining strict security protocols. Special attention was given to regulated entry and exit points, monitoring of sensitive areas and strengthening surveillance systems around important locations.
Officials were directed to ensure that security arrangements remain proactive rather than reactive, with necessary measures put in place well before the beginning of the festival.
With a large movement of visitors, artists and dignitaries expected during the festival, traffic regulation and route security emerged as key focus areas during the meeting.
IGP Sujit Kumar directed officers to ensure proper route clearance and deployment of Road Opening Parties (ROPs) along designated routes to facilitate safe and uninterrupted movement.
Traffic officials were instructed to prepare effective traffic management plans, deploy adequate personnel at vulnerable and congested points and minimise inconvenience for the general public. The aim is to maintain a balance between security requirements and smooth daily movement across Srinagar.
The meeting also stressed the importance of close coordination between all participating agencies. IGP Kashmir directed officers to maintain continuous information sharing and strengthen the security grid through real-time coordination.
Authorities were asked to remain alert, enhance surveillance and take preventive measures in advance to address any possible security challenges. The emphasis remained on creating a responsive security system capable of handling large crowds while ensuring public safety.
The meeting concluded with a comprehensive assessment of security arrangements and further directions to strengthen coordination among all agencies involved.
The festival is expected to bring together visitors, participants and cultural representatives, making security management a crucial aspect of its successful execution.
With Kashmir positioning itself as a hub for cultural and international events, authorities are focusing on ensuring that the festival becomes a symbol of hospitality, creativity and confidence while maintaining a secure environment.
The meeting was attended by senior officials including Additional Commissioner SB Srinagar, DIG SSB Srinagar, DIG ITBP Srinagar, senior officers from CID Kashmir, CKR Srinagar, Traffic Kashmir, Armed and IR Kashmir, CRPF, BSF, PCR Kashmir, Srinagar Police, Railways Kashmir, Security Kashmir, intelligence agencies, SDRF, Information Department, Tourism Department, Fire and Emergency Services and other concerned departments.
