Capital all set for mock drill
With tensions escalating between India and Pakistan following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Delhi has been placed under heightened security ahead of nationwide mock drills scheduled for Wednesday.
The Union Home Ministry had issued a directive to reinforce preparedness in major cities, prompting the Delhi Police to ramp up security measures across the national capital.
The increased vigilance comes in the wake of the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, where 26 civilians —mostly tourists — were gunned down in an assault India has blamed on Pakistan-based terror outfits.
In response, the national capital is bracing not only for possible spillover effects but also for a visible show of readiness.
Over the past 48 hours, police units across Delhi have intensified day and night patrols, with special deployments at high-footfall zones such as Connaught Place, India Gate, Janpath, Gole Market, Yashwant Palace and Khan Market. Markets, tourist hotspots and transport hubs are being kept under tight surveillance.
On Tuesday morning, a dedicated police team was seen reviewing ground-level arrangements in Connaught Place, with officers monitoring access points, conducting security sweeps and coordinating with local stakeholders.
In South-West Delhi, foot patrols have been expanded. “Our teams are on the ground to enhance visibility, maintain public order and build community trust,” said DCP (Southwest) Surendra Choudhary, adding that beat officers are actively engaging with residents and business owners to raise awareness and collect inputs.
According to senior officials, all Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs) have been instructed to draw up detailed plans tailored to their jurisdictions. Strategy meetings involving Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACPs) and Station House Officers (SHOs) have been convened across districts.
“We’ve significantly increased our patrolling efforts — both on foot and via mobile units. Besides city police, paramilitary forces have been deployed at Delhi’s borders with Haryana and Uttar Pradesh,” a senior officer told The Tribune.
The mock drill is expected to be comprehensive, simulating coordinated responses to terror scenarios. Bomb disposal squads and dog squads will be stationed in sensitive areas, including Palika Bazaar, Janpath and near government offices.
Special attention is also being paid to vehicular movement. Several temporary check posts have been set up across the city, with officers tasked with identifying unregistered vehicles, rental cars and suspicious individuals.
Sources confirmed that security teams have been directed to focus on access-control points and conduct randomised checks without disrupting essential traffic flow.
“These drills are not merely routine exercises. These are part of a broader strategy to stress-test our preparedness in real-world scenarios,” the senior officer added.
