M A I N   N E W S

Security forces on high alert for I-Day

New Delhi, August 14
Security forces went on high alert across the country on the eve of Independence Day in view of threats by militant outfits to disrupt the celebrations even as six bus passengers were killed in a blast triggered by militants in Manipur.

In the Capital, where Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee will unfurl the national flag and address the nation from the ramparts of Red Fort tomorrow, the police and paramilitary forces have been deployed in strength.

Sharp shooters have taken up positions on high rise buildings in the vicinity of the historic venue and the entire area has been declared “out of bounds” for the public.

Air traffic in Delhi and some of its adjoining areas will be suspended for six hours from 4 a.m. tomorrow and two helicopters will maintain an aerial surveillance to prevent any terror strike like the September 11, 2001, attack in USA.

Extra security measures were being taken in the North-East, especially in Imphal, where militants struck in the wee hours today killing six bus passengers and injuring 15 others.

In Jammu and Kashmir, intelligence agencies have intercepted wireless messages of militants suggesting suicide attack in the Jammu region. A multi-tier security ring had been thrown around the city of temples with the Army assisting the civilian administration.

Patrolling on national highways and militant-infested areas have been intensified.

Trains in North-East Frontier Railway Zone will be suspended for two days from tonight. — PTI