
The Delhi Police has placed the national capital on high alert for the Republic Day celebrations, deploying more than 30,000 personnel across the city as part of a multi-layered security arrangement, officials said.
Of these, around 10,000 police personnel have been deployed in the New Delhi district alone, which includes the ceremonial parade route and other high-security zones. Additional Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) Devesh Kumar Mahala said all standard operating procedures are in place, including pickets, barricading and contingency plans.
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“For the safety and security of Republic Day celebrations, approximately 10,000 police personnel are deployed in the New Delhi area. Deployment plans, point-wise briefings and contingency measures have been explained to all personnel, and rehearsals have been conducted,” Mahala said.
As part of enhanced surveillance, more than 3,000 CCTV cameras equipped with advanced video analytics and Facial Recognition System (FRS) technology have been installed across the New Delhi area, including along the parade route and adjoining locations. Live feeds from these cameras are being monitored round-the-clock through over 30 control rooms, manned by nearly 150 personnel.
Police personnel on the ground are also equipped with India-made AI glasses integrated with FRS and video analytics.
“These AI glasses are linked in real time with police databases of criminals, suspects and proclaimed offenders. Any face match in a crowded area can be detected immediately, allowing quick intervention,” Mahala said.
The security grid includes multi-layered barricading, multiple levels of checking and frisking at all designated entry points, and strict access control measures along the parade route and nearby areas. Mobile surveillance vehicles fitted with FRS technology have been deployed at strategic locations to enhance monitoring and rapid response.
Sniper teams have been positioned on thousands of rooftops across New Delhi, North and Central districts. Deputy commissioners of police have carried out route surveys and anti-sabotage checks, while vigilance has been intensified in high-footfall areas such as markets, bus terminals, metro stations and railway stations across the city.
As part of preventive measures, the police are also conducting tenant and domestic help verification drives. Inter-state coordination meetings have been held with police forces of neighbouring states to ensure seamless intelligence sharing and preparedness, officials said.
The additional commissioner of police appealed to citizens to strictly follow security guidelines and avoid carrying prohibited items. He also advised attendees to be aware of their designated seating enclosures, named after rivers, their approach roads and assigned entry channels to ensure smooth movement during the celebrations.
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