Delhi braces for heightened security as Commissioner of Police enforces a 29-day curfew under Section 144, prohibiting aerial activities to safeguard the Republic Day celebration.
Delhi is under curfew from January 18 to February 15, as per the directive of the Delhi Police. The restriction includes a ban on the use of various airborne devices like paragliders, paramotors, hang gliders, UAVs, and UASs during this period. The move is aimed at ensuring public safety during the Republic Day celebrations, with concerns raised about potential threats from criminal elements or terrorists using such aerial platforms.
Sanjay Arora, the Commissioner of Police, Delhi, invoked Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code and a government notification to enforce the prohibition. The order takes effect from January 18, 2024, and will last for 29 days, unless withdrawn earlier.
Additionally, flight movements at Delhi Airport are restricted between 10:20 am and 12:45 pm from January 19 to January 26, according to an order by the Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL). The security measures are part of the heightened preparations for Republic Day celebrations and the Ram temple event.
The Delhi Police has increased vigilance, instructing night patrol staff to monitor hotels, guest houses, and dharamshalas, especially around railway stations and inter-state bus terminals. Over 8,000 police personnel have been deployed across Delhi to ensure security during the January 26 parade.