Three days ahead of the capital foundation ceremony, security arrangements are being taken up at a brisk pace. Interacting with The Hindu , City Police Comissioner Gautam Sawang says special emphasis has been laid on the terrains along the Krishna river front. Excerpts:
How are police planning surveillance at the main venue at Uddandarayunipalem?
Police are arranging electronic surveillance at all entrances, main dais and at the meeting venue. Hundreds of closed-circuit cameras are being installed to keep a tab on suspected activity.
How many routes have been arranged to the venue?
Several approach roads have been laid to the venue. Roads have been laid from Vundavalli, Amaravati, Thullur and other villages to reach the meeting venue. Around eight roads have been laid from Guntur and Krishna districts.
Any separate route arranged for VVIPs?
For VVIPs, AAA, AA and A-1 pass holders, separate routes were arranged. VVIPs will be allowed to move along separate roads in accordance with protocol.
Any alternative roads arranged in case of emergency?
Alternative contingency roads have been arranged for VVIPs as well as for farmers and the general public attending the ceremony. Electrification has been done at the venue and on roads.
How many helipads have been planned?
About eight helipads have been planned at the main venue at Uddandarayunipalem, of which three are exclusively for the Prime Minister’s landing. The remaining helipads will be allotted to other VIPs.
Has a master control room been set up?
Yes. Three master control rooms have been arranged. One at Gannavaram airport and the other two control rooms have been arranged at the meeting ground to monitor the situation from time to time.
What are the steps being taken to prevent traffic jams?
Parking lots have been arranged at the entrance of the venue. Police will coordinate with the Guntur Urban, Rural and Vijayawada City Police to prevent traffic on the thoroughfares leading to the venue.
What is the strength of the force being deployed for the foundation stone laying ceremony?
More than 10,000 police personnel have been being requisitioned for the event. Forces are being deployed from the neighbouring Telangana State, too.
When will trial run be conducted?
Police forces will take possession of the area [where the event will be conducted] three days before the ceremony. Rehearsals will be conducted two days before the event.
What are the safety measures taken to prevent any accidents?
Fire tenders, medical teams, ambulances and electricity officials [to prevent short circuits] will be deployed to prevent accidents at the venue.
What are the steps being taken to prevent thefts and snatchings?
Crime police teams will be deputed to prevent thefts and snatchings. Aerial surveillance will be arranged to keep a vigil on movement of strangers.
