The Delhi saw a deserted look as the key markets of the city were shut due to restrictions and security measures for the G20 Summit in New Delhi.

The Delhi Police, paramilitary forces and other security agencies maintained a tight cordon to prevent any untoward incidents during the event.

Officers said patrolling has been intensified in border areas and crucial locations, and markswomen and other armed forces have been deployed across the city, especially in the New Delhi district.

Along with more than half the force involved in Summit-related duty, the Delhi Police’s K9 squad and their handlers will be deployed at strategic locations the airport, hotels, and routes taken by the dignitaries  on bomb detection duty.

The Delhi Police is also being assisted by the Armed Forces in performing security duties and all important venues will have venue commanders in the form of Special CPs to oversee the security apparatus while DCPs will serve as camp commanders at the hotels where dignitaries will be staying. The NSG and ITBP will also be deployed for duty at the summit.

Boat patrolling was also being carried out by police in the Yamuna Khadar area and picket checking around crucial points has been increased. Officers said the city has been put on high alert in view of intelligence inputs regarding law and order issues. Police will also be using chains and bolt cutters as part of measures to control protests or agitations during the Summit.

The Metro, meanwhile, hardly saw any crowd. Commuters had ample space to sit and almost no one was standing. Even heavy traffic interchange stations such as Hauz Khas, Botanical Garden, Noida Sector 52, and Rajiv Chowk were nearly empty of passengers. Rajiv Chowk, well known for its bustle and crowds, was eerily calm. Even New Delhi station seemed more subdued than usual.

Source: IndianExpress