Mumbai is now on high alert ahead of India’s Independence Day celebrations, with security personnel on site and at railway stations and other crowded public places. The city has more than 3,400 police officers, and security forces have been deployed as part of a national security operation to protect citizens at one of the country’s largest national events.
The increased security measures are in light of increased security in major cities in India ahead of August 15. Mumbai is India’s financial capital and one of the country’s busiest cities, and heavy traffic comes through its suburban railway network every day. Because railway stations and public transport hubs are strategic sites, security agencies have been closely monitoring them.
The deployment includes police officers, railway police personnel, quick response teams, bomb detection and disposal squads, dog squads, and intelligence units, the officials said. Security checks have been intensified in most major railway stations including Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Dadar, Mumbai Central, Bandra Terminus, Lokmanya Tilak Terminus, and other key transit points. Passengers, baggage and station premises are being thoroughly looked after to avoid any possible security risks.
Specialised dog teams trained to detect explosives and suspicious materials have been deployed at major railway stations. These dog teams are constantly sweeping platforms, waiting areas, ticket counters, parking lots and other high-footfall areas. Bomb detection and disposal teams are also in place strategically to respond quickly in case of any emergency situation.
In addition to physical security measures, surveillance systems throughout the city have been beefed up. Thousands of CCTV cameras were installed at railway stations, public transport hubs, markets and government facilities that operate 24/7; millions of CCTV cameras at railway stations, public transport hubs, markets and government buildings are being monitored on a 24/7 basis. Security personnel are taking advantage of modern surveillance technologies and will be on the lookout for suspicious activities and will be able to detect suspicious activities and react quickly to them and respond to any potential threats.
Authorities have increased patrols around sensitive locations including government offices, iconic landmarks, religious venues, shopping destinations and public gathering venues. Quick response teams are on standby, and intelligence agencies are closely monitoring inputs on possible security issues, officials said.
Mumbai Police have advised that citizens should be careful and work closely with security forces during inspections and check-ups. Anyone who has non-maintenance was advised by the Mumbai Police to report any unattended baggage, suspicious goods, or unusual activities to the nearest police officer or railway authorities immediately. “We urge citizens to be vigilant and cooperate with the security personnel during inspections and check-ups,” said the Mumbai Police.
Security arrangements have been made with the railway authorities, the GRP, RPF and other law enforcement agencies. Joint drills and preparedness exercises have been conducted so that a quick and coordinated response is made when an emergency occurs.
The enhanced security is because Independence Day celebrations are expected to attract large crowds across Mumbai. Schools, colleges, government institutions, residential communities and other organisations are preparing for flag hoisting ceremonies and cultural events to mark the occasion. So authorities are taking a proactive approach to make sure the celebrations take place peacefully and without disruption.
The security measures are ‘precautionary’ in nature and are standard practice for large national events, officials said. And while no specific threat has been publicly disclosed, law enforcement agencies are very prepared to protect residents and visitors.
Mumbai's heavy security deployment of all kinds of security forces is a reflection of the city’s commitment to protect millions of people’s safety and security as India celebrates another Independence Day.
