Security stepped up in Delhi post Paris attack

NEW DELHI: Security was today stepped up in the national capital especially outside the French embassy, government buildings and international airport here following an alert by intelligence agencies in the wake of terror strikes in Paris in which over 120 people have been killed.

Security has been especially tightened in the diplomatic enclave and other crucial locations including the Indira Gandhi International airport, railway stations, metro network and bus terminals in Delhi.

Vigil is being kept around prominent hotels, malls and markets in the city.

"We are alert and have taken adequate measures to deal with any emergency," said a senior police official.

"The Special Cell of Delhi Police which is the specialized counter-terrorisim unit has also been briefed and the crime branch has also been kept in loop," the official said.

Security is being upgraded in and around crowded markets in the city and office buildings in the Lutyen's Zone which house offices of several ministries.

A meeting of senior officials was held today and local police were also asked to be alert and report any untoward happening in areas under their jurisdiction.

A series of terror attacks in Paris targeting concert-goers, soccer fans and people enjoying a Friday night out at popular nightspots killed at least 120 people.

At least two explosions were heard near the Stade de France national stadium where a France-Germany friendly soccer match was being played, attended by President Francois Hollande.

After the attacks, Hollande declared a state of emergency and announced that he was closing the country's borders.