Independence Day | 20,000 troops, AI cameras: How Delhi Police is securing the Red Fort
A multi-layered security apparatus, comprising nearly 20,000 personnel and an extensive technological surveillance network, has been established around the historic monument
National capital security has been significantly strengthened around the Red Fort in preparation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Independence Day address, featuring a multi-layered security apparatus of nearly 20,000 personnel and advanced technological surveillance, including AI-powered CCTV cameras and anti-drone measures. A rigorous 18-hour counter-terrorism exercise, "Sudarshan Shakti-V," was conducted to ensure all security divisions are fully prepared and operationally ready for the event.
National capital security has been significantly strengthened around the Red Fort in preparation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Independence Day address, featuring a multi-layered security apparatus of nearly 20,000 personnel and advanced technological surveillance, including AI-powered CCTV cameras and anti-drone measures. A rigorous 18-hour counter-terrorism exercise, "Sudarshan Shakti-V," was conducted to ensure all security divisions are fully prepared and operationally ready for the event.
National capital security has been significantly strengthened around the Red Fort in preparation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Independence Day address, featuring a multi-layered security apparatus of nearly 20,000 personnel and advanced technological surveillance, including AI-powered CCTV cameras and anti-drone measures. A rigorous 18-hour counter-terrorism exercise, "Sudarshan Shakti-V," was conducted to ensure all security divisions are fully prepared and operationally ready for the event.
Security has been drastically tightened across the national capital as preparations reach full swing at the Red Fort ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address on Independence Day. A multi-layered security apparatus, comprising nearly 20,000 personnel and an extensive technological surveillance network, has been established around the historic monument and adjoining areas.
According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (North) Raja Banthia, the security framework is divided into human and technical deployments.
Ground forces include multiple Delhi Police divisions—such as the Traffic Unit, North District teams, PCR, Special Branch, and Special Cell—alongside paramilitary companies, National Security Guard (NSG) commandos, snipers, and specialised "hit teams." Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) are stationed on watchtowers, while National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel have been deployed to handle potential contingencies.
On the technological front, over 1,000 high-definition CCTV cameras equipped with AI video analytics—including Facial Recognition Systems (FRS), automatic number plate recognition, and intrusion detection—have been installed around the venue.
Dedicated control rooms staffed by trained personnel will monitor live feeds round the clock to direct immediate ground responses. Additionally, officers are equipped with body-worn cameras, anti-drone mechanisms are active to counter aerial threats, and digital security teams are actively monitoring social media chatter.
To test operational readiness, the Delhi Police and NSG, in coordination with central and state agencies, conducted "Sudarshan Shakti-V," a comprehensive 18-hour joint counter-terrorism exercise from August 7 to August 8. The drill simulated complex threat scenarios—including simultaneous blasts, indiscriminate firing, hostage crises, aircraft hijacking, and CBRNE (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive) attacks—at strategic locations including Connaught Place, Kashmiri Gate ISBT, IGI Airport, Kalkaji Mandir, and the Red Fort Metro Station.
With all briefings and training sessions completed, police officials confirmed that all security divisions are on track and fully prepared to secure the national event.