Today the view on Kashmir’s highway is unusual. Normally Crowded with vehicles plying with essential supplies, the highway has no traffic today.
This highway which runs across the valley and connects Srinagar with Jammu has been blocked at all the major entry and exit points in view of the ‘”secutity situation” that may arise in the aftermath of the death of the Hurriyat leader, Syed Ali Shah Geelani.
The 92-year-old Hurriyat leader died of prolonged illness at his residence in Hyderpora area of Srinagar Kashmir at 1020 PM on Wednesday.
Amid an uneasy calm, The streets across the Kashmir valley are wearing a deserted look with hundreds of paramilitary troopers manning them on the second consecutive day.
The security deployment across the main squares across the valley has been increased by huge numbers to thwart any kind of public gatherings on Friday.
Telecommunication services were barred since Wednesday night, shortly after the top Hurriyat leader, Syed Ali Shah Geelani breathed his last.
Amid mild protests, People of the Kashmir valley have been confined to indoors as the main towns across the valley have been locked down with barbred wires and paramilitary troopers.
Though limited information is available from the rural Kashmir, Reports suggest that special prayers are being arranged for the deceased Hurriyat leader in several mosques of Kashmir.
However the Government Forces seem to be leaving nothing to chance. Forces’ vehicles are making constant rounds of villages in South Kashmir parts.
Essential services including health have been impacted due to the lockdown. People with no access to calling and internet have been unable to avail the sevices.
The restrictions are likely to continue till Sunday, sources told The Kashmiriyat. However security officials have said that they will take a review of the situation on Friday evening and decide on the restrictions including the communication lockdown.