India: Increased security and transport disruptions certain in Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir, during prime minister's visit from Feb. 20

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory, Feb. 20. Modi will address a public rally at Maulana Azad Stadium; organizers expect at least 20,000 supporters to attend the event. He will also participate in several inauguration projects, including laying the foundation stone for a new terminal building at Jammu Airport (IXJ) and flagging off the first train service between Sangaldan and Baramulla stations. Although unlikely, minor demonstrations against central government policies are possible at event venues.

A heightened security presence and traffic restrictions are certain at event venues and routes used by Prime Minister Modi. Authorities imposed a temporary ban on the use of drones, paragliders, and remote-controlled micro-light aircraft as a precautionary measure under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) through Feb. 20. Officials announced the diversion of traffic, affecting several junctions, including Bikram Chowk towards Dogra Chowk, as well as Canal Head towards Dogra Chowk. Traffic along several roads, including RS Pura Road leading to IXJ and sections of National Highway (NH) 144A, will likely be heavy. Increased congestion and demand for public transport are also probable, especially around Maulana Azad Stadium, as many attendees arrive at and leave the venues. Authorities may also reroute or curtail public transport serving the impacted areas. Commercial disruptions are possible due to the closure of local businesses and/or employees' difficulties in reaching workplaces.