Security stepped up as tourists flood hill resorts on New Year Eve

Srinagar, Dec. 31 -- With tourists thronging Kashmir's hill resorts on New Year's eve, security has been tightened across the Valley.

Tourism stakeholders say premier snow destinations Gulmarg and Sonamarg are fully booked.

Police and other security agencies have put in place extraordinary security arrangements, particularly in Gulmarg, Sonamarg and Pahalgam. An increase in tourist arrivals has been observed in Srinagar and other destinations since Tuesday evening, prompting intensified surveillance at checkpoints.

Officials said additional forces have been deployed at major tourist locations, including parks, Boulevard Road in Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg, to ensure peaceful and safe New Year celebrations. Checking, patrolli...