I-Day preparation: All ready to blunt threats from sky

Not willing to take any chance with the security of the lutyen’s Zone and the Central Delhi during the Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort on August 15, the Delhi Police has issued an order declaring a “no-flying zone” in and around New Delhi, Central Delhi and North Delhi areas to be effective from July 27 till September 19.

All the railway stations and Inter State Bus Terminuses (ISBTs) too have been put under the no-fly zone restrictions. The order also implies that there will be ban on even flying of kites in the sensitive areas. Sources told The Pioneer that the spectre of terrorism looms large over the Independence Day celebrations. “The recent hostility on the western borders and repeated attempts by Pakistan sponsored terror outfits to disrupt celebrations in the National capital has been viewed very seriously by the central security agencies. Intelligence intercepts suggest that terrorist groups such as lashkar-e-Tayyeba (leT), Hizbul Muzahideen (HM) may try to carry out terrorist strikes by launching unmanned flying objects,” said a source.

Accordingly, the Delhi Police has issued an order prohibiting the flying of objects like paraglider, parasail, paramotor, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), remotely piloted aircraft, aero model, micro light aircraft, hang glider, and hot air balloon. Sources maintained that round the clock vigil is being mounted on the movements of fringe elements who may try to sneak into the city for carrying out subversive activities after the order has been issued by the Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) of Railways OP Singh. 

A senior Delhi Police official said there is an urgent need to plug the loopholes in the existing security scenario in the capital. “Situation warrants a serious security audit and extensive drill to identify strangers and undercover agents owing allegiance to Pakistan-based terror groups,” he added. Police officers say comprehensive checking on the entry and exit points in all the important places, courts and buildings should be done and it would be better if these are sanitised on day-to-day basis. 

“All the upper and lower subordinates have been pumped in area policing. This will enhance the reach of all the 11 police districts. Cops are working on area specific security plans to keep Delhi free from terror attacks during the run up to the Independence Day celebrations,” they said.The level of security could be judged from the fact that the Delhi Police has conducted a survey of all drains that pass through Central and North Delhi. 

“Police will be putting stickers on every drain and nullah to ensure that all entry points are sealed. Every hotel and guest house is being screened and spotters have fanned out across the city to keep an eye on any suspicious movement,” officers claimed. Market associations and municipal bodies have been told to cover every dustbin as there are intelligence reports that terror groups could use the same for launching an attack.