New Delhi: Police and security forces have asked people to vacate Indian Gate and nearby lawns as a precautionary step in view of ongoing situation in the bordering cities with Pakistan today.
Several videos on social media show police urging people to vacate the area. There was no official word from the police of authorities, but it is believed that the step was part of ongoing preparations and safety drill across the country.
Several reports suggest that, not only India Gate, security has also been enhanced at other iconic places in the national capital like Red Fort and Qutab Minar.
Delhi on high alert; govt employees’ leave cancelled
A high alert was sounded in Delhi, and all city government employees’ leaves were cancelled as hostilities ramped up between India and Pakistan, with several border areas, including Jammu, coming under cross-border shelling.
District magistrates in the national capital are holding meetings with their subordinates to review health and disaster management preparedness in case of any emergency.
“Police will stay alert and will keep active. Night vigil has been intensified. We will deploy extra force in every sensitive area,” a police officer said.
In a late evening order, the Delhi government’s services department banned its employees from going on leave until further orders.
An official in the New Delhi district said that a review meeting was held to check the preparedness of the health department and the disaster management apparatus.
Govt analysing the quick response mechanisms
Another official in the East Delhi district administration said they are analysing the quick response mechanisms and identifying gaps.
Security was heightened across the national capital with additional forces, including paramilitary personnel, being deployed at key installations.
Police sources said special commissioners of all zones are holding meetings with the deputy commissioners of all 15 districts.
