Red Fort rehearsal sets stage for Independence Day celebrations

New Delhi: A full dress rehearsal for India’s 80th Independence Day celebrations was held at the historic Red Fort on Thursday, with security agencies and traffic authorities stepping up preparations across the national capital.

The rehearsal was conducted ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Independence Day address from the Red Fort on August 15. Authorities expect large crowds and have put extensive security and traffic arrangements in place.

Security tightened across the capital

Shahdara DCP Rajendra Prasad Meena said the district was being treated as a sensitive area, particularly because of its seven border points adjoining Ghaziabad in Uttar Pradesh.

Traffic at these border points was stopped from 10 pm on Wednesday as part of the security arrangements. Police also deployed temporary pickets in addition to regular checkpoints and maintained continuous patrolling.

Special security measures were also introduced along the Yamuna’s Khadar area behind the Red Fort, with patrols expected to continue until the main Independence Day event.

Traffic restrictions affect key routes

Traffic Police Zone-2 Additional Commissioner Dinesh Kumar Gupta said restrictions were imposed along the capital’s borders, with commercial vehicles barred from entering through designated points. Vehicles carrying essential commodities were permitted.

Authorities coordinated with Uttar Pradesh and Haryana officials to divert vehicles before they reached Delhi, helping reduce congestion around the borders.

Several diversion points have also been created, while restrictions are expected around C-Hexagon, Tilak Marg, the Lutyens’ Zone and other VIP routes because of official movement.

Public urged to plan journeys

With the main celebrations scheduled for August 15, commuters have been advised to check traffic advisories and use alternative routes where necessary.

The elaborate arrangements are aimed at ensuring the smooth conduct of the national ceremony while maintaining public safety around one of the country’s most significant Independence Day venues.