FRIDAY PRAYERS: FRESH CURBS IN PARTS OF VALLEY

SRINAGAR: Fresh restrictions were imposed in parts of Kashmir on Friday to maintain law and order in view of congregational prayers, even as markets in the Valley remained shut and public transport was off the roads for the 54th day. However, the situation remained peaceful.

Restrictions under Section 144 Crpc were imposed on Friday morning in various parts of the Valley, officials said.

The restrictions were imposed in parts old city and civilian areas as security forces placed their vehicles and barricades at some places to block roads. Curbs were imposed in five police station areas of Nowhatta, Rainawari, Safakadal, Khanyar and Maharaj Gunj in downtown (interior areas) and in Hazratbal zone in Srinagar.

The authorities also sealed the Lal Chowk city centre–the commercial hub of the city–by placing barricades and concertina wires on all entry and exit points leading to the area, they said.

Officials said the curbs were imposed as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order in view of the Friday congregational prayers.

Officials said the Friday prayers passed peacefully across the Valley and there was no report of any untoward incident.

On Thursday night, protests were held at Nageen area of the old city.

Meanwhile, normal life remained affected in Kashmir as main markets and other business establishments continued to remain closed. Mobile services remained suspended in Kashmir except in Handwara and Kupwara areas, while internet services continued to be snapped.