A total of 15,000 policemen will be deployed at various vantage points in the city as part of security arrangement for Independence Day celebrations.
With Central intelligence agencies warning of possible terror attacks in Chennai, Madurai, Coimbatore and other cities in the State ahead of August 15, the police have intensified security. According to senior police officers, policemen will be deployed at important high-rise buildings, in and around the Secretariat, foreign consular offices, Port, IT parks, statues of national leaders and worship places.
CCTV cameras will be used to monitor movements around these spots. Surveillance will be increased along the coast with the help of Coast Guard personnel and the coastal security group. Vehicle checks will be conducted at all entry check-posts and key points allowing entry into the city.
Police teams will also check lodges and hotels. Plainclothesmen will patrol shopping malls, cinema theatres and other places where the public will gather in large numbers. The police have already started checks at railway stations.
The police have advised the public not to touch or open any unclaimed object. “They should immediately inform the police control room,” said a senior police officer.