Independence Day security: 20,000 personnel, NSG teams deployed at Red Fort

With Independence Day approaching, security preparations have been stepped up across Delhi, particularly around the Red Fort, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to deliver his August 15 address. Around 20,000 security personnel are expected to be deployed as part of a multi-layered arrangement.

The security plan includes Delhi Police units, paramilitary personnel, commandos and National Security Guard (NSG) teams, along with snipers and specialised ‘hit teams’. An NDRF force and Quick Reaction Teams will also be stationed at strategic locations.

Red Fort gets multi-layered security cover

DCP North Raja Banthia said personnel from several Delhi Police units, including the Traffic Unit, North District, local police, PCR, Special Branch and Special Cell, would be deployed.

“Personnel from all these divisions will be deployed. Additionally, numerous paramilitary companies, commandos, and NSG teams, including ‘hit teams’ and snipers, will be stationed here,” he said.

Banthia said an NDRF force would also remain available to deal with possible contingencies. QRTs will be positioned at key points, including watchtowers.

Over 1,000 CCTV cameras deployed

Technology forms another major part of the security arrangements. More than 1,000 CCTV cameras have been installed at the Red Fort and nearby areas, with dedicated control rooms monitoring the feeds.

"We have control rooms staffed by highly trained personnel dedicated to monitoring these feeds, and we have established specific points for on-ground response teams to act quickly", Banthia said.

The surveillance network includes facial recognition systems, number plate recognition and intrusion detection technology. Some personnel will also use body-worn cameras.

Anti-drone systems have been deployed to detect and respond to possible drone threats, while police are also monitoring social media activity.

"We are fully prepared on all fronts, with all briefings and training sessions completed. We are on track," Banthia said.

Delhi conducts counter-terror exercise

Ahead of the celebrations, Delhi Police and the NSG, along with central and state agencies, also conducted a large-scale counter-terrorism drill across the capital.

The fifth edition of Sudarshan Shakti-V was held from 10 am on August 7 to 4 am on August 8. The exercise included simulated scenarios such as blasts, firing, hostage situations, an aircraft hijacking and CBRNE attacks at locations including ISBT Kashmiri Gate, Connaught Place, Nehru Place, IGI Airport, Red Fort Metro Station and Kalkaji Mandir.