Security forces implemented all precautionary measures to thwart any untoward incident in the city in the wake of the Republic Day celebrations. The city was fortified with intense security along the parade route. The policemen have been asked to remain alert at restaurants and food joints which might be targeted by subversive elements.
Security has also been tightened in Delhi University. Although the Delhi police maintained that there was no specific input about any threat from terrorists, the entire security mechanism was on high alert.
Senior police officers involved in the security arrangements confirmed that snipers have been deployed on highrise buildings, while around 100 CCTVs will help keep an eye on all movement between Rajghat and the Red Fort, the route of the parade that showcases India’s military might and cultural diversity.
The Indian Air Force has already put on alert its air defence units in the city. Unmanned aerial vehicles will monitor the city. Mobile hit teams, anti-aircraft guns and sharpshooters of the National Security Guard will be deployed at vantage points.
Addressing the media on the preparations, joint commissioner of police (traffic) Satyender Garg said: “All security arrangements are in place. More than 150 companies (15,000 personnel) from paramilitary and other state forces will be deployed besides the Delhi police. Another 1,500 traffic policemen will also be on the streets.”
Additional police teams have been deployed at railways stations in the city. Around 1,300 security personnel have been deployed at the New Delhi and Old Delhi Railway Stations.
Patrolling in crowded market areas has been intensified and checking and frisking at Metro stations and bus terminals has also been tightened.