E-Paper
Tight security across Delhi ahead of Bush visit
A multi-layered security ring comprising US security officials, paramilitary commandos and Delhi Police personnel will protect Bush during his stay.
A day ahead of the visit of United States' President George W Bush, security was stepped up across the Capital as Delhi Police carried out extensive searches.
Surprise checks and raids were being carried out at several sensitive parts of Delhi.
Activities of travellers to the city was being monitored closely with a special focus on budget hotels in busy areas like Paharganj and Karol Bagh, sources said.
Additional police personnel have been deployed across the Capital to sanitise the route the visiting President would take for various engagements across the city.
Access to the Purana Qila monument, where Bush would address a select gathering of government leaders, businessmen, and politicians, was being controlled.
The monument was teeming with officials from the US Secret Service and Indian security agencies.
Sniffer dogs were pressed into service to detect for explosives and even sewer lines were checked.
The US security officials, along with their Indian counterparts, carried out elaborate checks on the motorcade route, identified rooftop sightlines for snipers, analysed potential threats.
The officials also performed drills at the Palam Technical Area, where the Air Force One aircraft carrying Bush and his entourage, would land in the evening on Wednesday.
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is expected to receive him.
A multi-layered security ring comprising US security officials, paramilitary commandos and Delhi Police personnel will protect Bush during his stay in New Delhi.
