Delhi on High Alert: India Gate Evacuated, Anti-Terror Measures at Key Metro Stations And Markets

Delhi: Security was significantly stepped up across Delhi on Thursday as the national capital braced for any fallout from the armed conflict between India and Pakistan, which escalated following Pakistan’s failed attempt to target military installations across northern and western India on Thursday night.

In a show of preparedness, additional paramilitary forces were deployed at sensitive spots, while local police ramped up vigil at public places including markets, malls, hotels, metro stations, residential colonies, and airports.

India Gate Evacuated as Precaution

As a precautionary measure, the iconic India Gate area was cleared of visitors on Thursday evening. The move came amid the brewing cross-border tension, prompting an alert status across Delhi.

Officials from the Delhi Police were seen asking people to vacate the premises. While the evacuation raised concerns, a senior police officer downplayed the development, saying, “This is standard practice to keep C Hexagon traffic jam free. Nothing new in it. Anyone can come tomorrow and see it,” said the DCP.

Top Police Officials Hold Zone-Wise Meetings

According to police sources, Special Commissioners across all zones convened meetings with Deputy Commissioners (DCPs) of all 15 districts, chalking out area-wise strategies and deployment plans.

“All DCPs are actively monitoring law and order in their areas. They have already briefed their officers like ACPs and SHOs. DCPs are personally monitoring their area and Delhi Police is ready to deal with any kind of situation,” said the source.

Mock drills simulating emergency scenarios were also carried out in multiple locations, involving coordinated efforts between police, fire services, disaster response teams, and medical units to ensure real-time preparedness.

Anti-Terror Measures at Metro, Markets, and Hotels

A close watch is being maintained at high-footfall areas. DCP (East) Abhishek Dhania shared details about a critical inspection at one such location, “As part of ongoing anti-terror measures, the police conducted a thorough security inspection at the Mayur Vihar Phase-1 Metro Station, a vital public installation. During the visit, CISF personnel were briefed, and a focused coordination meeting was held.”

“The station is secured with 41 operational CCTV cameras monitoring every critical point. In each shift, 7 male and 2 female CISF personnel remain deployed to ensure robust, round-the-clock security. This will ensure the safety of the commuters,” he added.

Elsewhere, anti-sabotage teams including Bomb Disposal Squads (BDS) were active, inspecting vulnerable spots. “The district's BDS team conducted anti-sabotage checks at malls, markets, hotels and vital spots to ensure public safety throughout the district. The exercise strengthened vigilance and preparedness against potential threats,” said DCP (Southwest) Surendra Choudhary.

Vehicles, Borders Under Close Watch

Across the city, especially along bordering areas, vehicle checks were intensified to ensure no suspicious movement went unnoticed. “We have intensified vehicle checking as part of anti-terror measures, reinforcing public safety and vigilance,” confirmed DCP (Rohini) Amit Goel.

Senior officials said security has been boosted at key points such as the New Delhi district, the cantonment area, and the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport.

Efforts to engage with the community have also been ramped up. “Delhi is already on high alert, and security has been increased, especially at the tourist places. We also held meetings with the members of Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) and Market Welfare Associations (MWAs). Security guards at various locations have also been briefed and sensitised to stay alert, report suspicious activities, and maintain close liaison with the local police. Surprised pickets were installed at various districts for vehicle checking,” a senior officer said.

Social Media Under Scrutiny

In the digital space, police teams are actively monitoring social media platforms to detect and address any misinformation or potentially inflammatory content that could escalate tensions.

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