US security agency gets familiar with Delhi roads

NEW DELHI: Absolutely nothing is being left to chance before President Obama’s visit. In a move that highlights how meticulously the US secret service is planning the visit, one of the teams — out of the several teams present in the capital — includes drivers who are expected to familiarize themselves with the capital roads under the stewardship of senior officials of the defence forces.

‘‘ As the US secret services is fully aware of the fact that the pattern of Indian roads is different, they have sent their drivers a few days ahead of the President’s visit to acclimatize themselves to the roads so that the presidential entourage can travel without any discomfort,’’ said a security officer.

Meanwhile, the top cops held meetings throughout the day at the police headquarters discussing the security arrangements ahead of the Obama visit . Various aspects of security were dwelt upon, after which other meetings with various security agencies were also discussed.

According to top cops, they do not plan to shut down markets the way they did during the opening and closing days of the CWG or even the cyclothon. ‘‘ We are in talks with the US agencies. We do not plan to shut markets, especially since it will be Bhai-Dooj on the day he arrives. However, since it involves the movement of a very important dignitary , some local action cannot be ruled out,’’ said a senior officer at the police headquarters.
Police said out of all the places, the President is due to visit, maximum security will be given to Rajghat. ‘‘

Since it has more open space, the area is more vulnerable. However, there will be a tight four-ring security cordon throughout his visit. The alternative routes to be taken by the President will be decided only after talks with several other Indian and US security agencies.’’

Meanwhile, sources claimed that security concerns have forced authorities to disable the ‘‘ virtual tour’ ’ of Hotel Maurya Sheraton where US President Barack Obama will stay during his visit to the capital beginning this Sunday. The management has disabled the ‘‘ online virtual tour’ ’ section in the Delhi hotel website. The virtual tour enables a client to have a peek at the facilities provided by the hotel as well as the layout of the rooms. Interestingly , the websites of Maurya Hotels in Bangalore and Agra have the virtual tours running at present. However, hotel officials refused to confirm the development on Tuesday.

Security agencies are also ensuring foolproof security for US First Lady Michelle Obama as she is expected to have her own programme during the visit. She is expected to visit some places and attend programmes in the city.