Delhi Police has strengthened security around the Red Fort ahead of India's Independence Day celebrations, deploying more than 1,000 CCTV cameras connected to AI-based video analytics as part of a multi-layered surveillance and anti-terror security plan.
The cameras have been installed inside and outside the Red Fort, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to unfurl the national flag and address the nation on August 15. Live feeds from the surveillance network are being monitored through a dedicated control room.
The AI-enabled video analytics systems are intended to help security personnel identify suspicious activity, crowd-related concerns and other potential law-and-order situations. Police response teams have also been positioned at strategic locations to act when an incident is flagged or detected.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (North) Raja Banthia said elaborate security arrangements have been introduced with an emphasis on maintaining security while minimising inconvenience for people attending the celebrations.
The deployment forms part of a broader security operation rather than functioning as a standalone AI surveillance system. Multiple layers of checking and screening have been established at and around the Red Fort, alongside an anti-terror response plan designed to address potential threats or emergencies.
Security agencies have also conducted mock drills and advance coordination exercises with stakeholders. The measures are intended to establish a coordinated response between agencies if an emergency occurs during the celebrations.
AI-based video analytics can add an automated layer to conventional CCTV monitoring by analysing video feeds for predefined patterns or anomalies. In high-footfall environments, such systems can assist human operators by directing attention towards activity that may require further assessment.
However, the final assessment and response remain with security personnel. The deployment therefore represents AI-assisted surveillance rather than autonomous security decision-making.
The technology-led measures are being accompanied by heightened physical security across Delhi. Police personnel, specialised response teams and other security agencies have been stationed at strategic locations, while surveillance has been increased around vital installations, public areas and other sensitive locations.
Separately, more than 1,600 police personnel have been deployed across Delhi Police's South Zone. Authorities have also increased patrolling, vehicle inspections and checkpoints, while drone surveillance is being used as part of the wider Independence Day security operation.
Traffic and public transport arrangements have also been modified for August 15. Delhi Metro services are scheduled to begin at 4 am to facilitate travel for invitees and members of the public attending the Red Fort celebrations. Traffic restrictions and diversions will remain in place across several parts of the capital.
The Red Fort deployment highlights the expanding role of AI-powered computer vision in large-scale public security operations. Video analytics is increasingly being combined with existing camera infrastructure to help operators process large volumes of surveillance footage and identify situations requiring human attention.
For Delhi Police, the technology is one component of a wider security framework combining surveillance, personnel deployment, physical screening, emergency preparedness and inter-agency coordination ahead of the Independence Day programme.