While security measures are typically heightened before Diwali due to the threat of terror attacks
Delhi Police has ramped up security across the city, especially in bustling markets filled with festival shoppers, following a blast in front of the CRPF school in Rohini’s Prashant Vihar area, officials said on Monday. In response to the explosion, railway and Metro staff have also been put on high alert.
The blast, which occurred on Sunday morning, caused significant damage to a school wall and nearby shops but did not result in any injuries. Vehicles parked close to the site also sustained damage, with shattered window panes being reported.
A senior police officer shared that security at all railway and Metro stations has been tightened. “We have asked our staff to keep a tight vigil on every single railway and metro station. Additional force deployment will be made to check any suspicious activities,” the officer said.
Joint patrolling teams, consisting of officers from the Railway Protection Force (RPF), Government Railway Police (GRP), and other agencies, have been deployed to monitor sensitive areas. “Teams will immediately inform senior officials if they see any suspicious activities,” the officer added.
Both foot and motorcycle patrols have been intensified. Anti-sabotage checks, carried out with the help of dog squads and bomb disposal teams, are also being conducted regularly along railway tracks. Railway staff from adjoining cities have been instructed to remain vigilant as well.
While security measures are typically heightened before Diwali due to the threat of terror attacks, the recent blast has led to further strengthening of law enforcement efforts in Delhi. Additional police personnel, both in uniform and plainclothes, have been deployed in crowded areas such as markets and malls. Women police officers are also part of the increased patrols.
“CCTV cameras are being continuously monitored by the teams, and PCRs were asked to be ready for any situation,” the officer said.
Key markets like Chandni Chowk, Azadpur, and Ghazipur are receiving extra attention, with police focusing on these areas due to their heavy foot traffic and the large number of visitors from outside the city.
“Elaborate security arrangements have been made, especially in markets, malls, vital installations, and crowded places. Police visibility has been enhanced through intensified patrolling and extra picket deployments. All staff are on high alert to thwart any untoward incident,” another senior officer shared. Foot patrols have been increased, and police teams, along with senior officers, will soon conduct flag marches in market areas.
In North Delhi’s Sadar Bazar, police have been making announcements asking the public to stay vigilant. “We have decided that there will be no loading or unloading from 12 pm to 8 pm in Sadar Bazar to ease traffic and allow police teams to carry out checks ahead of Diwali,” the officer added.
Security agencies remain on high alert to ensure the safety of the public during the ongoing festive season.