Snipers, anti-aircraft guns: Everything to know about Republic Day security
What's the story
For India's 70th Republic Day celebrations on Saturday, massive security arrangements have been made at the National Capital, Delhi. The varied layers of security include SWAT women commandos, mobile hit teams, and snipers. Anti-aircraft guns have also been put at various places to secure the airspace. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is the Chief Guest this time. Here are more details.
Arrangements
Face recognition cameras put up, snipers deployed
Nearly 25,000 security personnel have been deployed in the city. Security was beefed up at various strategic locations. Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) Madhur Verma said CCTV cameras and face recognition cameras have been installed at various spots in Rajpath. Sharpshooters have been tasked with keeping a strict eye on the eight km long parade route from Rajpath to Red Fort.
Details
3,000 personnel tasked with handling traffic
NSG commandos operated Parakram vans also combed strategic points in the city. Counter-drone technology is also being used to thwart an attack and identify any suspicious flying object. Nearly 3,000 traffic personnel have been deployed to control and divert traffic movement to ensure visiting dignitaries don't have any problems. Snipers were stationed at high-rise buildings on the parade path and nearby areas.
Metro
But, what about metro routes?
There isn't any change in metro facilities and it will function normally. However, commuters won't be able to board or de-board at Central Secretariat and Udyog Bhawan stations from 5 AM till 12 noon. Boarding and de-boarding will also not be allowed at Kalyan Marg (Race Course) and Patel Chowk metro stations between 8:45 AM and 12 noon. Parade will start at 9:50 AM
Traffic
If you are traveling in Delhi, avoid these routes
Vehicular movement was stopped on Rajpath on Thursday at 11:00 PM. The path won't open for vehicles until the parade is over. From 2 AM, vehicular movement was closed at C-Hexagon India Gate. The restrictions won't be lifted till the parade crosses Tilak Marg. No vehicles will be allowed on Tilak Marg, BSZ Marg and Subhash Marg from 10 AM, a senior officer said.
Arrests
Earlier, two Jaish terrorists were arrested
Notably, two suspected Jaish-E-Mohammed terrorists were arrested by Delhi Police's Special Cell a few days ago. The terrorists, Abdul Latif Ganaie and Hilal Ahmad, were planning an attack on nearly seven spots in Delhi. While Ganie was arrested in Delhi, Ahmad was nabbed from J&K. Police also recovered items like grenades and guns from them. They were directed to 'disrupt' Republic Day celebrations.