Security forces in Kashmir have started making preparations for the long winter season ahead. In the wake of the central government's decision to scrap Jammu and Kashmir's special status in August, many units o fthe Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) were moved in to Kashmir as aprecautionary measure to maintain law and order in the Valley.

It is estimated that nearly 80,000 additional troops weredeployed to maintain internal security in J&K in August. As winter approaches,security forces have intensified their efforts to procure winter clothing for these troops. Sources said headquarters of most CAPFs in Kashmir are busy arranging winter clothing, bukhari and heaters.

Security officials said since this is one of the largest troop deployments in the Valley, large scale arrangements are being made tocope up with the challenges that may come up during winter.

Sources in CAPFs told India Today TV that due to the large number of troops in Kashmir, procurement of weapons began nearly two monthsago. Besides the sub-zero temperatures in the region during winter, closed shops also pose challenge to security forces in meeting their winterrequirements.

Speaking to India Today TV, DGP Jammu and Kashmir PoliceDilbagh Singh said, "All security forces have a procurement wing that ismaking the requisite arrangement. Wherever necessary, the Jammu and KashmirPolice will also help them."

WINTER WOES

November marks the onset of winter in Jammu and Kashmir. Atmany places, temperatures fall to below zero degree Celsius.

Last year, in the wake of the panchayat elections, a similardrive to procure winter clothing was carried out for troops deployed inJ&K. However, this year additional deployment was carried in J&K outduring monsoon, because of which battalions did not carry sufficient winterclothing and equipment.

In J&K, the severe winter months include the period of'Chillai-Kalan', a 40-day period of harsh winter beginning on December 21 andending on January 31.

Besides the procurements, security forces are also movingtroops who were housed in tents to proper shelters.

A senior CAPF officer said, "We will ensure that everytroop on the ground has adequate facility and winter clothing. No one will beleft out."