Keeping the recent Al Qaeda threat in the mind, security agencies converted the capital into a fortress with a multi-layered security cover as Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh addressed the nation from the ramparts of the historic Red Fort.  Additional police and paramilitary forces were called in from other zones to keep a hawk eye vigil on the sensitive locations including the historic India Gate, North Block, South Block, Rashtrapati Bhavan, Parliament House and the airports at least two days prior to the Independence Day.  Last month the world’s most sinister terrorist outfit had warned serious attacks on cities like Delhi, Tel Aviv and New York.

A no-fly zone was declared around the 17th century Red Fort where Prime Minister unfurled the tricolour and addressed the nation. During the entire function, Indian Air Force helicopters patrolled the skies to prevent any aerial threat from militants.

Security was stepped up at railway and metro stations, inter-state bus terminals and other important places in the capital.

Barricades were put at several places to regulate traffic and stringent checks of vehicles were carried out at all entry points into the city.

The elite National Security Guards were roped and additional Delhi police and Indo-Tibetan Border Force personnel were deployed in to keep vigil at vital installations.