New Delhi : Ahead of Independence Day celebrations, Delhi Police has significantly bolstered security across the national capital, deploying over 10,000 police personnel and 3,000 traffic officers. These measures are part of a comprehensive strategy to ensure safety during the high-profile event. To strengthen surveillance, 700 AI-based facial recognition cameras with high-resolution pan-tilt-zoom capabilities have been installed around the Red Fort, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation. These advanced cameras will help police identify individuals from a distance, enhancing security at the event.
In addition to the AI-powered cameras, the police have positioned multiple layers of security at the Red Fort. The presence of snipers, elite SWAT commandos, and sharpshooters at key locations underscores the importance placed on VVIP security, particularly in light of recent global incidents, such as the assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump. This incident was discussed during a recent security meeting, where Delhi Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora stressed the need for stringent measures.
The police have also implemented a smartphone-based application to verify the identity of attendees at the Red Fort, adding another layer of security. The deployment of security personnel extends beyond the Red Fort, with additional forces stationed at critical locations such as Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, railway stations, bus stands, malls, and markets across Delhi. DCP North, Manoj Kumar Meena, highlighted the extensive security arrangements for the expected 20,000 to 22,000 guests, urging attendees to use the metro for transportation.
Recent events, including the arrest of Rizwan Abdul Haji Ali, a member of the ISIS-affiliated Pune module, have heightened security concerns. Ali, who was apprehended near the Delhi-Faridabad border, was allegedly conducting reconnaissance for a potential attack on VIPs in the Delhi-NCR region. In response, police have intensified patrolling, anti-sabotage checks, and the verification of tenants and servants. Hotels, guest houses, parking lots, and restaurants are being thoroughly inspected as part of these efforts.
The areas surrounding the Red Fort have been designated as a “no kite flying zone” until the Independence Day program concludes, with personnel equipped to intercept any kites that breach this restriction. Furthermore, the Delhi Police have banned sub-conventional aerial platforms, such as paragliders, hang-gliders, and hot air balloons, from August 2 to 16 as a precautionary measure.
DCP IGI Airport, Usha Rangnani, affirmed the commitment of the IGI Airport police, in collaboration with paramilitary forces, to ensuring robust security at the airport. Similarly, Shahdara DCP Surendra Choudhary detailed the district’s efforts to enhance safety, including tenant verifications, continuous foot patrols, community vigilance, and mock drills.
As Delhi prepares for Independence Day, the Delhi Police are leaving no stone unturned, with comprehensive measures in place to ensure the safety of all participants and the smooth conduct of the event.
