With New Delhi bracing for Diwali celebrations this weekend, the police have put in place a tight security regime across the city with emphasis on crowded places like markets and malls.
Intensifying foot patrolling, controlling access to crowded places, deployment of dog and bomb-disposal squads, and constant vigil on transit points are some of the security measures taken by police ahead of the festival of lights.
The Delhi Police are also keeping a close watch on vehicular movement across the city, with personnel of its Armed Battalion conducting random checking of vehicles and travellers especially at night.
Though there are no "specific" inputs about any threat from terrorist organisations, a senior police official said the city police are "not leaving any stones unturned" and are "fully prepared to safeguard the citizens".
"We are cautious but not panicked. Our personnel are on alert," the official said. With the pre-Diwali blasts that rocked the capital two years ago still fresh in mind, special attention is given to prominent markets like those in Paharganj, Sarojini Nagar and Lajpat Nagar.
Metal detectors were erected at the entry points of these markets and malls and shoppers are being subjected to frisking to avoid any untoward incidents, the official said.
As Internet and mobile phones were being increasingly used by terrorists for communication, the police have also asked cyber cafe owners and dealers providing mobile connection to maintain a list of their customers.
An advisory has also been issued to guest houses and hotel operators in this regard, the official said. Attendants at parking lots were asked to maintain a list of vehicle numbers using the facility, he said.
