Tight security for I-Day celebrations in Bengaluru

Elaborate security arrangements have been made across Bengaluru for the 71st Independence Day celebrations on Tuesday, said police on Monday.

"We have tightened security in the city by deploying additional forces and stepped up vigil in sensitive areas to ensure peaceful Independence Day celebrations," Bengaluru Police Commissioner T.A. Suneel Kumar told reporters here.

About 1,200 policemen would be deployed at the Field Marshal Manekshaw Parade Ground in the city centre where the main ceremony will be held from 9 a.m. until noon.

"Besides commandos of the state anti-terrorist squad, bomb detection and dog squads, we have installed a dozen closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras in and around the ground to monitor the event, and movement of people and vehicles," said Kumar.

For security reasons, invitees and public attending the function will not be allowed to carry mobile phones, helmets, cameras, umbrellas and other equipment with them into the stands.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will unfurl the Tricolour, receive the guard of honour from the contingents of the defence services, state reserved police, home guards and Bharat Scouts & Guides during the march parade.

"The celebrations include re-enacting the freedom struggle and cultural programmes by about 2,700 boys and girls from city schools and colleges," said Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike Commissioner Manjunath Prasad.

Vehicular movement will also be regulated to ensure smooth traffic and car parking has been banned within one kilometre radius of the venue to avoid any gridlock.

--IANS

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