Satyajit Roy, securityskillsworld.com, 22 October 2024

In light of recent events in Jammu & Kashmir, there is an urgent need to bolster security and instill a culture of vigilance among residents and workers involved in infrastructure projects. The ‘Surakshit Bharat Abhiyan’ initiative provides a framework for citizens to actively participate in safeguarding their communities. Here are some practical ways in which the people of J&K can adopt this initiative to protect lives, assets, and economic value:

A doctor and five labourers were killed in the terrorist attack in J&K’s Ganderbal district on Sunday 20 October 2024. The terrorists opened fire on the camp housing labourers of a private company working on construction of a tunnel at Gund area in the district, officials told news agency PTI. This has thrown up significant concerns about the safety of ongoing and future projects in the region. This attack aimed to disrupt the confidence of companies involved in major infrastructure developments, potentially hindering economic progress and stability in the Union Territory. Such incidents underscore the persistent security challenges faced by the region, necessitating immediate and effective responses to safeguard workers and project sites.

In response to this threat, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has mandated an increase in security measures, particularly in the residential areas of employees and workers. This includes deploying additional security forces and adopting strategies from the ‘Surakshit Bharat Abhiyan’ to foster a culture of security consciousness. By involving both employees and local citizens in proactive safety measures, the initiative aims to predict, detect, and prevent potential disasters, thereby maintaining the momentum of crucial infrastructure projects and ensuring the safety of all stakeholders involved.

Community Engagement and Awareness

• Workshops and Training: Organize regular workshops and training sessions on safety and security measures. These should focus on emergency preparedness, first aid, and basic self-defense techniques.
• Awareness Campaigns: Launch campaigns to educate citizens about recognizing suspicious activities and reporting them to authorities. Use local media, social platforms, and community gatherings to spread awareness.

Building a Culture of Security

• Regular Drills: Conduct regular security drills in residential and work areas. These should simulate various emergency scenarios to ensure preparedness.
• Feedback Mechanism: Establish a system for residents to provide feedback on security measures and suggest improvements. This encourages active participation and continuous enhancement of security protocols.

Strengthening Neighborhood Watch Programs

• Collaboration with Local Authorities: Work closely with local police and security agencies to develop neighborhood watch programs. Regular meetings can help in sharing information and strategizing security measures.
• Volunteer Patrols: Encourage volunteers to conduct routine patrols in residential and work areas. This not only deters potential threats but also fosters a sense of community responsibility.

Technological Integration

• Surveillance Systems: Install CCTV cameras in strategic locations to monitor activities round-the-clock. Ensure these systems are linked to local security offices for real-time monitoring.
• Mobile Apps for Reporting: Utilize mobile applications that allow citizens to report suspicious activities or emergencies quickly. These apps can also provide updates on local security situations.

Infrastructure and Environmental Design

• Secure Residential Areas: Design residential complexes with secure entry and exit points. Implement access control measures to ensure only authorized individuals enter sensitive areas.
• Lighting and Visibility: Ensure adequate lighting in public spaces and pathways to deter criminal activities. Trim overgrown vegetation that could provide cover for intruders.

Actively participating in the ‘Surakshit Bharat Abhiyan,’ the citizens of J&K can create a robust security consciousness environment that not only protects lives and assets but also fosters economic growth and stability. Through collective effort and a proactive approach, the region can ensure a safer and more prosperous future for all its inhabitants.