This Independence Day, focus on ‘minimalist’ grandeur at Red Fort; no heavy decorations on ramparts

A senior police officer said, “No big floral arrangements, scrolls or flag sheets have been stuck on the walls this time. We have been told to ensure the walls are not covered with a lot of decorative material. Only a G-20 logo will be put there along with a few embellishments.”

Each year, the Red Fort is decorated with thousands of flowers and scrolls in different colours to mark I-Day celebrations.

With Covid safety measures removed after two years for the celebrations, authorities are hoping for the attendance to supersede the pre-pandemic turnout.

Meanwhile, among the many firsts, security agencies, including Delhi Police and ITBP, have been asked to look after over 2,900 special invitees — Central Vista Project and New Parliament building workers and labourers; sarpanchs from 622 Vibrant Villages Project (villages on the Indo-China border); PM Kisan Yojna beneficiaries; nurses, fishermen, Khadi workers; labourers working on border roads, among others.

“The guests will be seated in a section close to civil officers/ service officers. Besides, we will have 80-90 couples from each state dressed in their traditional attire. They will not be a part of the parade or performance but will sit in the bleachers,” said an officer.

Delhi Police officers said while the capacity of the Red Fort is estimated at 26,484, they are expecting the crowds to swell up to 30,000-40,000.

As per police, while VVIPs, including the Prime Minister, the President and other dignitaries, will sit in the rampart area, most of the crowd will be seated on the south side of the rampart, which is called the August 15 Park. The North side of the rampart will be reserved for VIPs.

Police said more than 5,000-7,000 personnel have been deployed at the Red Fort for security arrangements, adding that at least 16 Artificial Intelligence (AI) cameras will be used at the venue.

Police said that this time, only children from Delhi schools and colleges will be provided with free passes as opposed to children from across states attending the event. For the first time, the children will not be sitting on the ground or grass as a new stand has been put up for them with seats.

Delhi Police have so far conducted three to four anti-drone surveys around the area. “We have been actively using anti-drone systems and cameras to catch drones, and even kites,” said an officer. Keeping in mind the tension in Manipur, police are keeping a “strict vigil”. “While everyone is allowed to attend the I-Day event, if someone is found sloganeering or forming a gathering, strict action will be taken,” said a senior officer.

SS Kalsi, DCP (North), said, “As part of strict anti-terror measures, we have been carrying out special drives and awareness campaigns. All RWA chiefs, police informers, market association leaders, and parking attendants have been alerted and asked to exercise maximum restraint if any suspicious object or subject is seen.”