The Delhi Police has enhanced security measures in preparation for the upcoming Independence Day celebrations.

Supplementary police units and paramilitary forces have been stationed at multiple sites, including IGI Airport, railway stations, bus terminals, shopping malls, and marketplaces.

Preparations are in progress at the Red Fort for the upcoming Independence Day celebrations in New Delhi. | Photo Credit: PTI.

The Delhi Police has enhanced security measures by assigning over 3,000 traffic police officers, deploying more than 10,000 police personnel, and installing 700 AI-driven facial recognition cameras throughout New Delhi in preparation for the Independence Day celebrations.

Supplementary police units and paramilitary forces have been stationed at multiple sites, including IGI Airport, railway stations, bus terminals, shopping malls, and marketplaces.

In celebration of Independence Day, over 3,000 traffic police officers will be assigned to manage traffic flow, positioned at key intersections throughout the national capital, as well as on routes linking the border to the Red Fort.

A senior police officer stated, "The Red Fort will be equipped with several layers of security measures. We have already acquired 700 AI-driven facial recognition CCTV cameras to guarantee strong security protocols for Independence Day."

Application designed for smartphones.

Law enforcement officials have announced that the newly installed cameras will feature high-resolution pan-tilt-zoom capabilities, enabling the identification of individuals from considerable distances. These cameras are set to be positioned both within and around the fort. According to the officer, the integration of AI-driven facial recognition and video analytics will provide comprehensive security measures. Furthermore, it was noted that over 10,000 security personnel will be present at the Mughal-era fort during the Prime Minister's address to the nation. Additionally, police will utilize a smartphone application to authenticate the identities of attendees at the event held at the Red Fort, as stated by an officer.

Furthermore, law enforcement officials have indicated that snipers, elite SWAT operatives, kite catchers, and sharpshooters will be strategically deployed to ensure the safety of the Prime Minister and other very important guests. The recent attempt on the life of former U.S. President Donald Trump has underscored the vital importance of snipers this Independence Day. According to official sources, during a recent security meeting held at the Red Fort, the attack on Trump was a significant topic of discussion, with Delhi Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora stressing the need for rigorous security measures. Additionally, on August 9, 2024, the Delhi Police apprehended a wanted terrorist affiliated with the Pune module of ISIS.

Following a tip-off, a unit from the Special Cell apprehended Rizwan Abdul Haji Ali, a Daryaganj resident, at a site near Ganga Baksh Marg along the Delhi-Faridabad border. Authorities confiscated a .30-bore pistol, three live cartridges, and two mobile phones from him. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) had announced a reward of ₹3 lakh for any information that would facilitate Ali's capture. Law enforcement suspects that Ali was engaged in surveillance activities in preparation for a potential attack on certain VIPs located in the Delhi-NCR region, according to police reports.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (North) Manoj Kumar Meena stated that the development teams have increased their efforts in patrolling and conducting anti-sabotage inspections. Various locations, including hotels, guest houses, parking facilities, and restaurants, are undergoing thorough checks, alongside the verification of tenants and staff. Additionally, discussions are being held with local resident and market welfare associations.

The DCP elaborated that comprehensive security measures are being implemented for the anticipated arrival of over 20,000 to 22,000 guests attending the event.

"We encourage both attendees and guests to utilize the metro for transportation to the venue. All metro gates will be accessible. Furthermore, we are establishing multi-layered security protocols. Meetings with all area Station House Officers (SHOs) are being conducted to maintain law and order. The police are fully equipped and prepared based on the intelligence we have received thus far," DCP Meena remarked.

Usha Rangnani, DCP of IGI Airport, stated that the IGI Airport police, in partnership with paramilitary forces, is dedicated to maintaining security at IGI Airport in anticipation of the forthcoming Independence Day celebrations. DCP Surendra Choudhary from Shahdara remarked that the district is enhancing safety protocols in preparation for Independence Day, which includes tenant verifications, continuous foot patrols, community vigilance, and the execution of mock drills to ensure the safety and security of the public. The vicinity surrounding the Red Fort will be designated as a "no kite flying zone" until the conclusion of the event. Numerous personnel equipped with the necessary tools will be strategically positioned to intercept kites, as stated by the police. For security reasons, the Delhi Police has banned the use of sub-conventional aerial platforms, including paragliders, hang-gliders, and hot air balloons, in the national capital from August 2 to August 16. This directive was issued by the Chief of Delhi Police.