Delhi readies for India-Africa summit

NEW DELHI: Massive efforts are underway to spruce up the national capital, ensure uninterrupted power supply and arrange foolproof security ahead of the upcoming four-day India-Africa summit, one of the most "important events" being hosted by Delhi in the last three decades.

Lt Governor Najeeb Jung today held a review meeting ahead of the meet, starting on October 26, with all the stakeholders including Delhi Chief Secretary and other city and central government officials, Police Commissioner, civic body heads among others.

Jung emphasized that a 24X7 control room should be set up in such a way that all the nodal officers of different organisations should be connected in the event of any emergency situation.

Representatives from 54 African nations, including heads of state of some 40 countries, and the African Union are expected to participate in the summit. They will put up in hotels across the city.

"Hit teams and snipers teams from NSG are being deployed. Personnel for body shield group and evacuation groups for VVIPs have been ear-marked. Mass-evacuation plan by deploying CAT Ambulance and other logistics have been charted," an LG house release said.

LG exhorted that from the national perspective and from the Delhi perspective, "this is one of the most important events that Delhi will be hosting."

"Power companies should be sensitized for ensuring uninterrupted power supply at the all places connected with the summit. All tourist spots should also be spruced up and provided required security cover," he said.

Calling for tight arrangements of medical facilities and effective address of public health issues, Jung stressed on regular fumigation of hotels, event venues and asked NDMC to to take necessary steps to prevent breeding of mosquito larvae.