SRINAGAR, May 4: Security forces checked for landmines on the eve of the third run of the trans-Kashmir bus slated for Thursday against a backdrop of surging violence in revolt-hit held Kashmir. Since the launch of the historic route April 7 meant to promote peace in the divided Himalayan region, over 100 militants have been killed in scores of clashes with troops in held Kashmir.

It is the biggest number to be killed in a month in at least three years, police say, and comes as the nuclear-armed neighbours are engaged in a peace process they have declared “irreversible.” Police in Srinagar, capital of held Kashmir and urban hub of rebels who have been waging a 15-year battle against New Delhi’s rule, said heavy security would be in place for the third run.

“We’re checking for landmines and boobytraps. Security will be watertight,” a police officer close to the security operation said.—AFP