A close watch is being kept around the stadium. For several days, troops have been conducting searches in areas around the stadium, despite the ceasefire. Sources said the government had taken extra precautionary measures in view of the recent suicide attack on Srinagar airport. From Wednesday, the police has been on the lookout for an Ambassador car hijacked by four uniformed persons. Troops searched bystanders and vehicles at various places.
Security is also tight in towns and villages.
Troops have been deployed in Barramulla, Sopore, Kupwara, Anantnag, Pulwama, Budgam and other tense areas. Due to tight security arrangements, state government offices and banks closed early on Thursday, while employees returned home in the afternoon. Sources said that all roads leading to the stadium would be blocked from Thursday night.