Delhi Police have been instructed to maintain heightened vigilance in high-footfall areas such as markets, malls, and tourist spots.
Delhi Bolsters Security Amid India-Pakistan Tensions
Amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, Delhi is taking unprecedented measures to ensure the safety of its citizens. The Delhi government has initiated the installation of 100 air raid sirens across the capital to prepare residents for potential aerial threats, signaling a robust civil defense strategy.
Air Raid Sirens to Cover the Capital
On Friday, the Delhi government began the process of installing 100 air raid sirens to provide early warnings in the event of an aerial attack. These sirens are designed to cover the entire city, ensuring that no area is left unprotected. The first siren was tested on the roof of the Public Works Department (PWD) headquarters at ITO on Friday afternoon at 3:05 PM. Its sound reached areas like Vikas Marg and parts of Central Delhi.
The Delhi Police had informed residents in advance not to panic, with local police stations making announcements to alert shopkeepers and residents about the test.
However, some locals, like fruit vendor Rajeev Kumar near ITO Junction, noted that the siren’s sound was faint. “We were told beforehand, so people were curious rather than scared, but the sound was too soft. I could barely hear it,” Kumar said. Authorities acknowledged the issue and are exploring solutions, such as increasing the decibel levels or installing multiple sirens in key areas to enhance coverage.
Delhi Police on High Alert
In tandem with the siren installations, the Delhi Police have been placed on high alert. They have been directed to maintain heightened vigilance in high-footfall areas, including markets, malls, and tourist spots like Janpath, Connaught Place, and Sarojini Nagar. Quick Response Teams (QRTs) have been deployed at critical locations such as the Indira Gandhi International Airport, major railway stations, and bus terminals.
A senior police officer stated, “With red alerts in Punjab and Jammu, and Delhi’s proximity to these regions, we must be fully prepared. We’ve increased force deployment and are coordinating closely with civil defense teams.”
Strategic Deployment of Sirens
A senior official involved in the project revealed that an average of 10 sirens will be strategically placed across each of Delhi’s 11 districts to ensure comprehensive coverage. While the exact locations are yet to be disclosed, PWD Minister Pravesh Sahib Singh confirmed that 50 sirens will be installed on high-rise buildings. “In an emergency, these sirens are critical for public safety. They will be controlled from a central command center monitored by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). Once a siren sounds, residents will have five minutes to seek shelter under tables, in basements, or other safe locations,” Singh explained.
The sirens, equipped with advanced technology, can be activated remotely via GSM (mobile communication systems) and have a range of 8 kilometers. They are connected to a software platform that allows one, several, or all sirens to be triggered simultaneously. In case of GSM failure, an HF radio backup is available, and each siren is equipped with a power backup to function during blackouts.
Comprehensive Civil Defense Measures
The siren test on Friday was part of a broader civil defense initiative. On Thursday, the government canceled all leaves for officials until further notice, with the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) following suit by suspending staff leaves. The Delhi government also conducted citywide mock drills earlier this week, including a 15-minute blackout in Lutyens’ Delhi to assess emergency preparedness.
A civil defense official emphasized, “We want to ensure no ‘dark zones’ are left. The siren’s sound must reach every neighborhood.” The installation and testing of the sirens will proceed in phases, with civil defense and PWD teams conducting site inspections and sound tests in the coming days.
Public Awareness and Preparedness
The government plans to launch a public awareness campaign to educate citizens on how to respond when a siren sounds. Guidelines include moving away from open spaces, seeking safe shelter, and maintaining calm. “While we haven’t finalized the schedule for additional tests, the public should stay prepared and not panic,” a civil defense official noted.
Heightened Security Across Sensitive Areas
Delhi Police have intensified patrolling in sensitive areas and increased their presence in crowded markets. Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs) have been instructed to identify personnel capable of assisting with rescue operations, siren management, first aid, and evacuation. “We’re maintaining regular patrols, coordinating with civil defense volunteers, and monitoring for any unusual activity. Our teams are on high alert,” an officer said.
A City on Guard
These measures—air raid siren installations, canceled leaves, blackout drills, and heightened police deployment—underscore Delhi’s most significant civil defense operation in years. While authorities stress that there is no need for panic, the comprehensive preparations reflect the gravity of the situation amid ongoing India-Pakistan tensions. As Delhi strengthens its defenses, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and preparedness of its residents.
