Security tightened along HP-J

Shimla, Apr 3 (UNI) Security along the Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh border has been intensified, apprehending an influx of militants into HP during summer when snow starts melting.

ITBP and IRB personnel have been deputed along 240 km inter-state border round the clock, sources said.

Gujjar and Puhals tribesmen start moving towards the hills of Chamba and Doda district with their herds.

Highly placed sources told UNI that militants in the garb of Gujjars conduct their activities during this phase.

DIG, ITBP H S Goraya visited the hills during the last three days and met the security personnel deputed in nine posts in the hilly Kihar and Tissa sectors. Rest of the areas are guarded by IRB forces.

Mr Goraya reportedly gave directions regarding the strategy to be adopted in view of the melting of snow in summer and possibility of anti-national elements entering their area from Jammu and Kashmir.

The ITBP officer went up to Mangli village on foot and also met the local people in order to know their viewpoint about the security measures in their respective areas. He assured them that all sorts of measures would be adopted to provide them an adequate security cover from the anti-national elements.

Meanwhile, there are reports that the senior officers of the Himachal Pradesh Police may also tour the hilly areas of the Chamba district which is linked with the state of Jammu and Kashmir.

The IRB forces have already been put on alert, in view of the surge in militant activities in the Jammu division.

There are indications that the new contingent of IRB forces will take over the control of the borders from their counterparts who served in the hilly terrains during the severe winter this year.

The old forces are likely to be sent to the lower hill areas of the state for taking rest and to prepare them for other routine duties, sources added.

UNI