Srinagar, Apr 24: Following the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in the deaths of 26 people, mostly tourists, security forces in have significantly increased their vigilance in the forested areas of Doda, Kishtwar and Kathua districts, which share borders with Anantnag in South Kashmir.
Talking to media persons, Shridhar Patil, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police, Doda-Kishtwar-Ramban (DKR) range said that they have always maintained a high level of alertness in Doda and Kishtwar, and following the Pahalgam terror attack, we have heightened our vigilance.
“Both Doda and Kishtwar districts share a significant portion of their territory with Anantnag, a region known for its ongoing terrorist activity. The dense forests in these areas have long been used by terrorists to hide and evade detection by security forces,” he said.
Another official said Pahalgam, being deep within the Kashmir Valley and far from the LoC or international border, could lead terrorists to seek refuge in nearby districts like Doda and Kishtwar.
“These areas, with their dense forests, provide a perfect cover for terrorists to escape. Intelligence-gathering operations have been intensified, and special forces are being deployed to ensure that terrorists do not infiltrate through Kathua’s border,” he said.
The official said that authorities are also working closely with neighboring districts to coordinate efforts and prevent any terrorists from using the region as an escape route.
“The heightened security measures are aimed at preventing any further terrorist activities and ensuring the safety of both locals and visitors in the area,” he added.
