Posters carrying photographs of 19 wanted terrorists linked to groups such as Indian Mujahideen, Al-Qaeda and Khalistani terror networks have been put up at multiple locations across Delhi as part of heightened security measures ahead of Independence Day, police said.
The exercise is part of the annual security drill conducted ahead of August 15. Officers said the posters are intended to raise public awareness and seek assistance in identifying and tracking people considered a threat to the national capital.
Red Fort gets multi-layered security cover
Delhi has been placed on high alert ahead of the Independence Day celebrations, with security agencies stepping up surveillance at crowded markets, Delhi Metro stations, bus terminals, railway stations, transport hubs, government buildings and other sensitive installations.
The Red Fort, where the main Independence Day celebrations will be held, has been placed under a multi-layered security cover. Around 15,000-20,000 Delhi Police and paramilitary personnel are expected to be deployed for the August 15 event, which is likely to draw a large gathering, including VIPs and VVIPs.
Nearly 1,000 CCTV cameras, including those enabled with facial recognition technology, have been installed at the Red Fort and nearby areas. A high-tech CCTV control room inside the monument will monitor activity within a radius of more than three kilometres.
Technology used to screen crowds
Delhi Police are also using technology to identify suspicious and wanted people in crowded areas.
The Abhigyan application, which has a database of more than one crore criminals, is being used through handheld devices to randomly screen fingerprints. The fingerprints are matched against the database within seconds. A red indication alerts personnel to a criminal record, while a green indication means no record has been found.
Facial recognition system vans equipped with high-resolution cameras have also been deployed at strategic locations. The vans scan faces in crowds and compare them with available databases. Any match involving a wanted or suspicious person triggers an alert to the control room for verification and further action.
Snipers and anti-drone systems deployed
Security personnel have also positioned snipers at strategic locations, including elevated platforms. Anti-drone systems have been deployed to prevent unauthorised aerial activity.
The surveillance network is being used to monitor several kilometres around the Red Fort. Police have also imposed restrictions on kite and drone flying around the monument as part of measures to prevent any security breach.