In a decisive response to the devastating blast outside the Red Fort that claimed 12 lives, the Delhi Police has rolled out an extensive, city-wide plan to fortify security across the capital and the National Capital Region (NCR). The new strategy, formulated over a week after the November 10 incident, directs officers to concentrate on five critical areas to prevent future threats.
Chemical Control and Second-Hand Vehicle Scrutiny
The police have initiated a major drive to sensitize wholesale chemical traders operating in key markets such as Bawana, Narela, Najafgarh, and Khari Baoli. Officers are conducting verifications to ensure all required documentation for the sale and purchase of chemicals is in order. Traders have been instructed to maintain strict registers for bulk purchases and to immediately report any suspicious buyers to the authorities.
Simultaneously, a crackdown has begun on the second-hand car market. This action comes after investigations revealed that the Hyundai i20 used in the blast had changed hands multiple times via dealers in Faridabad and online platforms. Police have issued advisories to second-hand car dealers, mandating thorough verification of buyers and all relevant documents before completing a sale. Additionally, drives are underway to remove unclaimed vehicles from public parking lots.
Tech Boost: CCTVs and Facial Recognition
A key weakness exposed during the investigation was the prevalence of non-functional CCTV cameras in market areas. To address this, the police have installed approximately 20,000 new cameras under the 'Safe City Project', supplementing the existing 2.8 lakh cameras installed by the Public Works Department (PWD). Market associations in prominent locations like Chandni Chowk, Lajpat Nagar, and Sarojini Nagar have been directed to ensure their surveillance systems are operational. The force is also planning to increase the number of Facial Recognition System (FRS) vans deployed across the city.
Intensified Tenant Verification and Squad Strengthening
A massive tenant verification exercise is now in full swing. Station House Officers (SHOs) have been directed to intensify this drive, and residents are being encouraged to report any suspicious individuals in their neighborhoods. Verification forms are available at local police stations or can be downloaded from the Delhi Police website. A stern message has been sent with the registration of over 100 FIRs in North Delhi alone against landlords who failed to verify their tenants. Neighboring NCR districts have been asked to follow suit.
To enhance operational capabilities, the Delhi Police is strengthening its Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS), Bomb Detection Team (BDT), and Dog Squad. A procurement plan for new tools and technologies worth Rs 40 crore is in motion. Officials confirmed that six BDS personnel recently received advanced training in a 'Visfot Kawach' exercise organized by the National Security Guard (NSG) in Manesar, Haryana.
Special Commissioner of Police Devesh Chandra Srivastava emphasized the comprehensive nature of the security revamp, which also includes checks at hotels and guest houses and the revamping of the 'Prahari' community policing scheme. He made a public appeal, stating, "We also appeal to the citizens of Delhi to cooperate and act as the eyes and ears of the force."
