Kolkata Tightens Security Ahead of Republic Day Parade at Red Road
Kolkata Police have put in place an extensive, multi-layered security arrangement ahead of the Republic Day celebrations at Red Road, underscoring heightened vigilance for one of the city’s most significant public events. With thousands of spectators and several prominent personalities expected to attend the parade on Monday, authorities have deployed a large force and introduced advanced surveillance measures to ensure the programme proceeds without disruption.
The security plan reflects both the ceremonial importance of Republic Day and the need to manage large crowds in a dense urban setting, especially amid evolving security challenges faced by major metropolitan cities.
Massive Deployment Across Red Road and Surrounding Areas
According to official arrangements, around 2,500 police personnel will be deployed in and around Red Road for the event. The entire parade zone and adjoining localities have been systematically divided into 17 zones and 125 sectors, allowing for tighter supervision and quicker response in case of emergencies.
Senior officers will play a direct role in overseeing security. The deployment includes 22 senior officers of Deputy Commissioner rank, 46 Assistant Commissioners, and 119 Inspectors, all tasked with supervising personnel and coordinating responses on the ground. Officials said the presence of senior leadership on-site is intended to strengthen command control and ensure swift decision-making during the event.
Aerial Surveillance and Rapid Response Teams
Given the presence of high-profile guests, Kolkata Police have added technological layers to traditional security arrangements. Drones will be used for aerial surveillance, providing real-time monitoring of crowd movement and potential security threats across the parade venue and surrounding areas.
In addition, three Quick Response Teams (QRTs) have been stationed at strategic locations around Red Road. These teams are trained to react swiftly to emergencies, including medical situations, crowd disturbances, or security alerts. Officials noted that positioning QRTs close to the main venue helps reduce response time in critical situations.
Physical Security Measures on the Ground
Physical security infrastructure has also been strengthened. Authorities have installed 10 sandbag bunkers at key points to control access and enhance protection. Twelve motorcycle patrolling teams will continuously patrol the area until the programme concludes, enabling rapid movement through congested zones where larger vehicles may face difficulty.
To maintain constant vigilance, police personnel will monitor the venue from 11 watch towers, offering elevated vantage points for crowd observation. Bomb detection and dog squads have been placed on high alert, and eight Heavy Radio Flying Squads (HRFS) will be positioned at strategic locations to respond to any suspicious activity.
Traffic Restrictions to Manage Crowd Flow
In anticipation of heavy footfall and security needs, the police have announced extensive traffic restrictions for the day of the parade. Movement on 13 roads, including Hospital Road, Lovers Lane, and Casurina Avenue, will be suspended from 5.30 am until the parade concludes.
Parking restrictions have also been imposed across a wide area. Vehicles will not be allowed to park on major stretches such as RR Avenue, Government Place West, Chowringhee Road, J L Nehru Road, Cathedral Road, Strand Road, Queensway, and Outram Road, among others. These measures will remain in force alongside existing traffic regulations.
Police officials have urged commuters to plan their travel in advance, use public transport where possible, and follow traffic advisories issued for the day to avoid inconvenience.
Heightened Vigil Beyond the Parade Venue
Security measures are not limited to Red Road alone. Kolkata Police have expanded surveillance across the city, particularly in places that typically see high public movement. Hotels are being closely monitored, with police verifying guest details and booking records as part of preventive security checks.
Police stations across the city have been instructed to maintain strict vigilance at malls, metro stations, markets, and other crowded public spaces. Naka checking has been intensified at strategic entry and exit points to detect suspicious movement and deter potential threats.
Officials said these steps are part of a broader citywide security strategy to ensure public safety during national celebrations, when large gatherings can present unique challenges.
Balancing Celebration and Security
Republic Day parades are a symbol of national pride and unity, drawing citizens from across social and age groups. At the same time, managing such events in a metropolis like Kolkata requires meticulous planning to balance festive spirit with safety concerns.
Senior police officials have reiterated that the arrangements are preventive in nature and aimed at ensuring a peaceful celebration. Citizens have been encouraged to cooperate with security personnel, follow instructions, and report any suspicious activity immediately.
Looking Ahead
With layered security, traffic management, and citywide vigilance in place, Kolkata Police aim to ensure that Republic Day celebrations proceed smoothly and safely. The comprehensive arrangements highlight the administration’s focus on preparedness and coordination across departments.
As the city gears up to mark the occasion, authorities remain on alert, emphasizing that public cooperation will be key to making the event both memorable and incident-free.
