By IANS
Hyderabad : Police are on high alert in the Andhra Pradesh capital in view of warnings by intelligence agencies that terrorists from Pakistan or Maoist guerrillas might disrupt Independence Day celebrations Wednesday.
Security has been tightened around vital installations, especially defence establishments and central research institutes.
Police were checking vehicles at all entry points into the city following reports that a five-member team of terrorists could sneak in to disrupt the official celebrations of India’s 60th anniversary of independence.
The checking of vehicles and frisking of people was also on at various places in the city.
There was tight security at cinema theatres, train and bus stations, shopping malls and other public places. Police were also checking hotels and lodges and making inquiries about those staying there.
A tight vigil is being maintained on arrivals at the airport. Airport authorities have banned the entry of visitors into the passenger terminal building.
Elaborate security arrangements have been made at the Parade Grounds in Secunderabad, the venue of the main function. Anti sabotage checks are being carried out with the help of bomb disposal squads.
Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy will unfurl the national flag and review the parade at the main function. Police said visitors to the venue would be screened and have been asked not to carry tiffin boxes, cameras and bags.
This is the first Independence Day after the May 18 blast at the Mecca Masjid here that claimed nine lives. Investigators are yet to identify the outfit that carried out the attack.