New Delhi: With Independence Day around the corner, security measures have been increased manifolds in the national capital to avert any untoward incident and maintain peace, law and order. Over 10,000 police and security staff have been deployed to ensure safety, said Delhi Police on Thursday.
Delhi Police Commissioner SBK Singh has given clear instructions to senior officers. He told special police commissioners and deputy commissioners to keep a close watch in their areas. A top police official said that many layers of security will be set up at the Red Fort, where PM Narendra Modi will deliver the Independence Day speech on August 15.
Increased surveillance, patrolling
Besides regular security measures, police will also use:
- CCTV cameras
- Systems to detect drones
- Facial recognition technology
These tools will help police watch the Red Fort and nearby areas more closely. Over 10,000 personnel, including paramilitary forces and special commandos, will be on duty during the preparation week and on August 15, police said. Police in all districts have been told to patrol on foot in busy places like markets, metro stations, bus terminals, and other crowded public areas.
Security upped around Red Fort
Besides this, to ensure the Red Fort campus and people present there are well protected, security will be increased at the tall buildings near the monument. Snipers and surveillance teams will be placed on rooftops. Entry in nearby areas will be restricted and there will be strict checks.
Another Delhi Police officer said that several steps are being taken to increase presence on the ground:
- Security drills
- Night and foot patrolling
- Teams in plain clothes to secretly observe activities
- These steps are especially focused in areas marked as sensitive.
Social media, suspicious vehicles under watch
Police cyber units are keeping a close eye on social media to catch any online threats or spread of fake news that could disturb peace. “We are checking online platforms to stop anything that might cause trouble,” said a Delhi Police officer.
Besides this, police are working with intelligence agencies to tighten safety via thorough vehicle checks, anti-sabotage measures, and verification drives. These are happening more often now as the day gets closer.
Flying objects banned
As one of his first big actions as police chief, SBK Singh has banned flying drones and other objects over Delhi skies from August 2 to August 16. These include: drones, UAVs, paragliders, hang-gliders, hot air balloons, or any other remotely controlled aircraft. The order explains that these items could be used by dangerous groups to attack or drop harmful things, which is a serious risk during Independence Day events.
Other measures in place
Senior officers will also be on the ground, personally checking how well the security is being managed in the city. Police are planning random inspections and flag marches in different parts of the city. These actions are meant to make people feel safe and scare away troublemakers.
Police are also working closely with central security and intelligence units. Their goal is to make sure no weak spots are left in the security system during this important time. Special security teams are now stationed at all main railway stations, bus terminals, metro stations, and airport. Security has been stepped up with passenger checks, baggage screening, and random ID checks, police said. 2880502