Life remains crippled in Kashmir, curfew-like situation

Srinagar, Aug 11 (UNI) Curfew-like situation prevailed in the summer capital with only security forces visible on the treets following Muzaffarabad march call given by both the factions of the Hurriyat Conference (HC) to protest against alleged economic blockade and attack on Muslims and Kashmiri drivers in Jammu.

Shops and business establishments remained closed in the summer capital and its adjoining areas.

Transport was also off the roads and all educational institutions wore a deserted look.

Work in the government offices was also affected due to strike.

A UNI correspondent who visited a number of areas in the city late last night saw security forces wearing bullet-proof jackets and holding automatic weapons guarding the streets.

''We have orders not to allow any vehicle without proper checking and frisking of all occupants,'' said a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) official to this correspondent at Rambagh at 0030 hrs last midnight.

He said authorities didnot want to take any chance as there were reports that some anti-social elements would try to create problem tomorrow in view of the Muzaffarabad March call.

Even vehicles carrying marriage parties were also being searched and frisked before being allowed to move.

Similar checks were being conducted at other places by the security forces.

A joint search of vehicles and frisking of passengers was also being conducted at Jahangir chowk by CRPF and State Police.

This correspondent saw adequate number of security forces guarding the almost deserted streets this morning. A security jawan could be seen after every ten foot. However, they were not preventing anyone. But there was very less movement of people on the roads, apprehending trouble.

The Fruit Growers Association (FGA) had threatened to take their fruit laden trucks through Jhelum valley to Muzaffarabad and other mandis of Pakistan following attack on Kashmiri drivers in Jammu.

UNI BAS PK NS1018