Security beefed up in national capital for Independence Day

NEW DELHI: Security has been beefed up in the national capital with thousands of Delhi Police and paramilitary personnel keeping a hawk-eyed vigil in the city to thwart any possible threats in the run-up to Independence Day later this week.

Given the security threat to Prime Minister Narendra Modi from several terrorist outfits, the security apparatus for the Independence Day celebrations has been scaled up this time.

A multi-layered security cover has been put in place along with a ground-to-air security apparatus to pre-empt any possible terror strikes in the city with special emphasis on the region around Red Fort where the main celebrations will take place with the Prime Minister unfurling the national flag and delivering his address to the nation.

Besides the patrolling of the skies by helicopters, an air defence mechanism will be put in place around the venue.

Heightened security will also be in place along the route to be taken by the Prime Minister's cavalcade and around Rajghat, where he will lay a wreath at the Samadhi of Mahatma Gandhi early morning.

On Friday, only those vehicles carrying parking stickers will be allowed on the routes in the vicinity of Red Fort.

"A fool-proof security plan is in place and we are prepared for any eventuality. People from the general public are requested to cooperate," said a senior Delhi Police official.

Most of the security apparatus has been put in place for the full dress rehearsal of the Independence Day celebrations which will be held tomorrow.