JAMMU, (CNI:) A total of 188 security personnel were airlifted by three IAF helicopters to snowy Marwa and Varwan areas of Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district, which is part of the Udhampur parliamentary seat, officials said.

Polling in the first phase of elections in Udhampur will be held on April 19.

Officials said the airlifting of 144 Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) and 44 Jammu and Kashmir Police officers to 31 remote polling booths was the first airlift of men and equipment in the country under the Lok Sabha elections. Indicates a ship.

In preparation for the first phase of the Lok Sabha elections, a joint effort by the District Election Office, Kishtwar, and the Indian Air Force (IAF) has led to significant deployment of security personnel in both cut-off remote areas of Kishtwar he said.

Road connectivity through Santhan and Margam top at 12,500 feet to Marwa and Varwan areas faces transportation challenges due to snow covered areas. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Electoral Officer PK Paul has made special arrangements for the safe transportation of polling parties, election supplies and equipment to 31 polling booths including 19 polling booths in Marwa and 12 polling booths in Warwan.

Officials said the deployment is part of comprehensive security measures being implemented in Kishtwar district ahead of the upcoming elections. He said that logistical challenges due to the remote and snow-covered terrains of Marwa and Warwan were effectively tackled, with 16 aircraft transporting security personnel to these areas.

District Election Officer Divenish Yadav said that ensuring the safety and security of polling parties involves intricate planning, especially in shadow zones and sensitive areas.

He said that five intermediate strong rooms have been set up to secure the ballots, which will increase the convenience and efficiency of the election process.

Yadav said 31 polling party members and reserves would be taken to remote polling stations in the interior of Marwa and Varwan on Friday, and reiterated the administration’s commitment to hold free and fair elections. No voter should be left behind. (CNI)