A full dress rehearsal for the Independence Day celebrations.
Credit: DH Photo
Preparations are in full swing at the Field Marshal Manekshaw Parade Ground for hosting 79th Independence Day celebrations in the city.
Senior officials from the city administration such as BBMP Chief Commissioner Maheshwar Rao, Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh, and District Magistrate Jagadish G highlighted the measures taken to ensure a successful celebration on August 15.
The parade ground has been prepared, with a stage adorned with decorative brass accessories and a flagpole for the national flag. A canopy and seating arrangements have also been put in place, with officials assuring that contingency plans are ready to handle potential rain.
The day’s programme will see the arrival of the chief minister at 8.58 am, followed by the flag hoisting at 9 am. The chief minister will then inspect the parade in an open jeep and receive a guard of honour before addressing the public. Cultural programmes will also be held on the occasion.
In a first, this year’s celebrations will be accessible to the public via e-passes. According to District Magistrate Jagadish, 3,000 e-passes have been made available on the Seva Sindhu website.
The e-pass online is available to public till afternoon of August 14 at (www.sevasindhu.karnataka.gov.in).
The citizens can register with their Aadhaar and mobile numbers to receive a QR code for entry. However, only 100 passes have been claimed so far, and citizens are urged to avail of this opportunity to witness the event.
Bengaluru city police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh said elaborate arrangements have been made. More than 100 CCTV cameras, baggage scanners, and metal detectors will be installed to monitor all activities, with 35 contingents and around 1,150 personnel from various forces.
The parade will be commanded by DCP C R Nagaraj, with Nikhil Kumar as the security commander.
To manage crowd flow and security, a clear pass and entry system has been devised. Invitee passes are colour-coded, with each corresponding to a specific entry gate and seating block.
The general public with green passes (e-passes) must enter through Gate 5 and will be seated in Blocks 7, 8, and 9. They must arrive by 8.30 am with a valid ID, as no entry will be permitted after this time. In addition, ambulances and medical staff have been deployed.
There are emergency beds reserved to address any unforeseen medical emergencies.