Chennai: 1.20 lakh police for Republic Day security, drones to be used

CHENNAI: Following warnings of terror attack during Republic Day celebration across the country on Friday, Tamil Nadu police had made elaborate security arrangements over the state.

According to a police officer, more than 1.20 lakh police personnel would be deployed throughout the state. “More concentration will be in sensitive cities. Top brass officers will directly oversee the security arrangements,” the officer added.
Of the 1.20 personnel, more than 15,000 police personnel have been deployed in Chennai, where Governor will hoist the national flag at St George Fort.

According to a police source, vigilant has been increased in bus stands, railway stations, airports, market places and busy spots. In addition to the heavy police presence at the vulnerable spots, city police have deployed drone cameras in Chennai to monitor crowd congregate during Republic Day parade on Chennai Beach Road. Similar drone cameras had been used earlier by city police on Independence Day and Kaanum Pongal day. Meanwhile, traffic has been diverted in Chennai Beach Road stretching from War Memorial to Lighthouse.

“Traffic will be closed on the entire stretch from 6am to 10am owing to the Republic Day parade on the stretch,” the police statement said.