Kolkata's Republic Day Security Blanket: Largest Deployment Since Durga Puja
Kolkata is preparing for an unprecedented security arrangement ahead of the Republic Day celebrations this Monday, with authorities implementing what officials describe as one of the most comprehensive security deployments the city has witnessed since the Durga Puja festivities. The security measures are reportedly even more extensive than those deployed during Christmas, reflecting heightened concerns about potential threats.
Heightened Border Vigilance and Intelligence Alerts
The security preparations come amid intensified monitoring of the Indo-Bangladesh borders and specific intelligence alerts suggesting that Pakistan-based terror groups might attempt to use neighboring countries as entry routes. In response to these concerns, Lalbazar police headquarters has directed every senior officer to be actively deployed on the ground during Republic Day operations.
The city's security blueprint focuses particularly on Red Road, where the main Republic Day parade will take place on Monday morning. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is scheduled to attend the function, adding to the security significance of the location.
Multi-Agency Security Operations at Red Road
From January 25, Red Road will be under continuous drone surveillance as part of the enhanced security measures. The area surrounding the parade venue will witness multiple layers of security checks conducted by various agencies.
- The bomb squad and sniffer dogs will conduct thorough searches
- The forest department will specifically search for snakes and poisonous insects around the Maidan area
- Police have divided the security zone into 11-12 sectors, each under the command of a Deputy Commissioner of Police
Massive Personnel Deployment Across Kolkata
The security operation involves approximately 2,300 personnel and 40 special teams stationed in and around the Red Road venue. These teams include Quick Reaction Teams, HRFS (Heavy Radio Flying Squad), RFS (Radio Flying Squad), and PCR (Police Control Room) vehicles.
An additional 2,500 police officers will patrol central Kolkata, monitoring entry and exit points of the city, vital installations, and major crossings. Specific attention is being given to diplomatic buildings, with the Bangladesh deputy high commissioner's office receiving additional security cover along with several similar structures.
Comprehensive Security Infrastructure
Authorities are establishing multiple watch towers and sand bunkers as part of the security infrastructure. While there is no specific intelligence input targeting Kolkata directly, police officials stated they are implementing precautionary measures as part of general Republic Day anti-terror operations.
- Enhanced checks at guest houses and hotels across the city
- Sanitization of all roads leading to the city center
- Establishment of a temporary command center at Red Road
- Closure of Red Road from 10 pm on Sunday for security preparations
Drone Surveillance and Night Operations
Police will deploy multiple drones for aerial monitoring and are conducting special all-night vehicle checks across Kolkata. "We collated all the inputs and carried out intensive night checks, checking over 400 vehicles each night," revealed a senior police officer involved in the operations.
The comprehensive security arrangement represents Kolkata's most significant peace-time security mobilization in recent months, reflecting the city's commitment to ensuring a safe and secure Republic Day celebration despite the challenging security environment in the region.
