(Image source from: PTI)
Officials have reported that four counter-terrorism operations are currently being conducted in Kashmir, coinciding with a heightened security initiative across the area, following the recent terrorist incident in Pahalgam that claimed the lives of 26 individuals. Two of these operations are an extension of previous confrontations. In South Kashmir, two of these ongoing operations are particularly notable, especially one that is underway in the Yarwan forest region of the Shopian district. These joint missions are carried out by personnel from the Indian Army alongside the Jammu and Kashmir Police. As per army insiders, there has been a significant increase in counter-terrorism activities throughout Kashmir, with a prominent emphasis on areas in the southern part of the region. Security forces have notably bolstered their presence in Shopian and Pulwama, where thorough searches and combing efforts are being enacted in both densely forested areas and rural regions.
In light of comprehensive security measures, close to 50 public parks and gardens situated in sensitive locations have been closed. Of the 87 parks and gardens deemed vulnerable, gates have been secured at 48. Among the tourist attractions that are now off-limits to the public are Dooshpathri, Kokernag, Duksum, Sinthan Top, Acchabal, Bangus Valley, Margan Top, and Tosamaidan. These sites, which had previously been marketed as alternative tourist destinations in recent years, are now viewed as being at heightened risk.
The move to close public areas and tourist locales comes exactly one week after the tragic shooting at Baisaran meadows near Pahalgam, a well-known tourist destination in the Anantnag district of southern Kashmir. On that occasion, armed assailants attacked visitors, resulting in 26 fatalities and numerous injuries. The majority of those affected were tourists who had visited the valley to enjoy the spring season, typically considered a safer time for travel. In the aftermath of the Pahalgam incident, security forces are now facing considerable pressure to dismantle the terrorist networks believed to be operational in southern Kashmir.
