LONDON, Nov 14: The British government, worried by the capture of Kabul by the Northern Alliance, is sending 4,000 paratroopers and marines to Afghanistan over the next few days to take part in peace and security operations there.

The UK ministry of defence said on Wednesday that warning orders had already been issued to the relevant sections of the army. Most of the troops are expected to head for Kabul, and they are likely to secure a major airfield for an aid operation. Other troops will be involved in maintaining law and order on the streets of the capital.

In all, said the ministry, Britain was likely to have around 10,000 military personnel directly engaged in peace and security operations in the region.

Prime Minister Tony Blair ordered the move, after overnight discussions with authorities in Washington, fearing the growing political vacuum could lead to a complete anarchy in Kabul. Mr Blair is said to be anxious. He feels that the allies cannot wait for a UN Security Council mandate and he wants the British troops to take the lead in a coalition peace force.

Sources said the UK was likely to take the lead because “the Americans are showing some reluctance” to put in large numbers of their own ground forces as part of a multi-national force.