As Delhi gets ready to host G20 Summit, officials finetune shutdown, security plans

As many as 60 Deputy Commissioners from all across the city, including those from specialised units such as the Special Cell, Crime Branch, Delhi Airport, Security etc, have been drafted to oversee and manage specific tasks related to the Summit. This includes security, in and around the Summit venue, IGI Airport, designated hotels, sites designated for visits by spouses, and traffic routes of visiting delegations, a statement issued by the L-G Office said.

“A DCP each has been assigned responsibilities of all hotels housing delegates, locations where meetings will be held, and locations where spouses will be visiting during the course of their visits. DCPs have also been put in charge of routes to be taken by visiting dignitaries,” the statement added.

According to officials, 40 heads of states and governments will be visiting the city for the two-day Summit, which begins September 9.

Restrictions, meanwhile, have been pla-ced on movement of traffic, and functioning of offices, schools and shops in a few areas.

As per a notification passed by the L-G Office Thursday, all private and government offices and all schools in the city will remain shut on September 8, 9 and 10. All schools and education institutions will also remain shut on these days.

Meanwhile, shops and commercial establishments that fall in the Delhi Police New Delhi district jurisdiction will remain closed. This will also apply to banks and financial institutions in the district.

In Thursday’s meeting, the L-G also stressed on maintaining routine law and order and policing without causing any inconvenience to residents. “The L-G told us we have to prove Delhi Police is the best force in the world. He also said there would be no tolerance for any slip-ups,” said an officer at the meeting.

Among other directions issued to the police, which the L-G said is to be followed strictly without any “leakage”, include ensuring security of “women and other vulnerable groups”; ensuring cordial behaviour with delegates, tourists and public; special focus on malls, markets, monuments and places of worship with Quick Response Teams/Commando Units and Strike Forces with special vehicles; and a detailed contingency plan in and around hospitals for emergencies.

Police, meanwhile, issued an order naming 13 DCPs who will be in-charge of law and order and crime management during the Summit. Police asked Joint CPs to brief officers of their roles.