Vigil tightened in Delhi ahead of R-Day

Police personnel said there could be chances of some youth or groups trying to stage demonstrations on Rajpath or the parade route as the protesters against the Delhi gangrape in December had demanded boycott of the parade.

Thousands of security personnel will be fanned across the capital in the run-up to the Republic Day celebrations to keep a tight vigil over the city, officials said.

Last year, around 25,000 armed personnel were on guard in the capital while in 2011 it was 15,000.

A massive ground-to-air security apparatus has also been put in place for the parade.

Snipers will be deployed at high-rise buildings while over 160 CCTVs will keep a tight vigil on people's movement between Rajpath and Red Fort, the route of the parade which showcases India's military might and cultural diversity.

Mobile hit teams, anti-aircraft guns and sharpshooters of National Security Guards will be deployed at various places while paramilitary and Delhi Police commandos will keep a close watch.

A multi-layer security ring has already been put in place at Rajpath, where President Pranab Mukherjee will unfurl the tricolour and take the salute of marching contingents.

Patrolling in crowded market areas has been intensified and checking and frisking in Metro, railway stations and bus terminals tightened. Security at the IGI airport was also strengthened in coordination with the CISF.

Checking and frisking have also been intensified at all entry points with police setting up barricades to keep a vigil on all those entering the capital.