The stage is set for a grand expression of patriotism during the Republic Day celebrations at the Field Marshal Manekshaw Parade Grounds on Sunday, but with tightened security. City Police Commissioner Raghavendra H. Auradkar, referring to terror accused Yasin Bhatkal, said: “A terrorist is in our custody. Hence, security will be heightened this time.”
Addressing presspersons on Friday, Mr. Auradkar said two Additional Commissioners, three Joint Commissioners and 11 Deputy Police Commissioners will oversee the celebrations.
“In all, 1,400 personnel, including KSRP platoons, will be stationed at key locations,” he said.
Visitors are prohibited from bringing certain objects. As many as 25 door metal detectors and 98 handheld ones will be used to screen visitors. “We have been running anti-sabotage checks for 10 days to ensure security during the day and the night. We have also installed CCTV cameras,” Mr. Auradkar added.
Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) Commissioner M. Lakshminarayana said the programme will begin at 8.58 a.m. with the arrival of Governor H.R. Bhardwaj and the flag will be hoisted at 9 a.m. He said that the number of cultural programmes have been limited to four this year due to paucity of time.
Fifteen ambulances, 30 doctors, 15 drivers and assistants, 30 nurses, 10 gangmen and 15 pharmacists will be stationed at the venue. Off site, 100 beds and 100 doctors as well as 150 paramedics in 15 hospitals plus 15 pharmacies and blood banks have been put on standby for the event, said the City Police Commissioner.
