New Delhi is on high alert due to tight security arrangements ahead of Putin’s arrival.

New Delhi has been put on high alert as a comprehensive, multi-layered security grid is in place ahead of the arrival of Russian President Vladimir Putin on a two-day visit to India on Thursday (December 4) evening. Police officials said their place of stay has not been disclosed due to security reasons.

From the President’s landing to his departure, every movement will be closely monitored by multiple security units working together. “Minute-to-minute coordination is going on and all concerned agencies have been directed to maintain maximum vigilance,” a senior official said. More than 5,000 police personnel will be deployed to ensure constant surveillance.

Top-ranking officers of Delhi Police are overseeing route safety, traffic arrangements and area cleanliness around the places included in the yatra. Another official said, “All routes mapped for VVIP movement have been secured in advance. Traffic advisories will be issued from time to time to minimize inconvenience to passengers. Anti-drone systems will be in place.”

The security apparatus includes SWAT teams, anti-terrorism units, sniper deployments, quick-reaction squads and extensive technical surveillance through high-definition CCTV networks around all possible areas of travel.

Authorities also plan to impose traffic restrictions near sensitive areas and enforce controlled pedestrian movement – although they assured that alerts will be issued in advance to minimize disruption to the public.