Delhi High Alert: New Delhi has been put on high alert ahead of Independence Day, with security agencies stepping up surveillance across the national capital in view of possible threats from Pakistan-based
terror groups, Khalistani elements and snap protests.
Around 24,000 guests are expected to attend the Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort on August 15, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hoist the national flag and address the nation. Nearly 12,000 Delhi Police personnel will be deployed in and around the venue.
To strengthen surveillance, more than 1,000 CCTV cameras equipped with Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based video analytics have been installed at the Red Fort and other strategic locations. The AI-enabled surveillance network will facilitate real-time monitoring, crowd management, movement analysis and prompt detection of suspicious activities, enabling quicker response by security agencies.
The security plan includes multi-layered access control at entry points, comprehensive anti-sabotage checks, deployment of Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs), snipers positioned at strategic vantage points, rooftop deployment of security personnel, specialised SWAT commandos, bomb disposal squads and dog squads.
Police will conduct intensive vehicle checks and continuous patrolling in the security zone. Visitors and invitees will undergo strict frisking and verification before entering the Red Fort.
Apart from the Red Fort, security has also been intensified across vital installations, government buildings, strategic locations, markets, transportation hubs, railway stations, Metro stations, bus terminals and other sensitive areas of the national capital.
As part of the heightened security measures, Delhi Police has also put up posters of wanted terror suspects at various locations across the city. The posters feature suspects allegedly linked to banned groups, including Al-Qaida and Babbar Khalsa.
Surveillance has also been intensified at hotels, guest houses and crowded public places as authorities maintain a heightened vigil ahead of the August 15 celebrations.
Officials said the posters are aimed at increasing public awareness and seeking information from citizens that could help security agencies trace the wanted suspects.
Delhi Police and other security and intelligence agencies are coordinating closely and have prepared a special security blueprint based on recent intelligence inputs.
