Tight security bandobast for Independence Day

Bhubaneswar: A full dress rehearsal for 71st Independence Day was held on Mahatma Gandhi Marg here on Sunday.
The contingents included first-timers ITPP, Odisha Swift Action Force, ODRAF. “We have been very selective in choosing the participating contingents. Last year there were 65 contingents. We have brought it down to 53 to improve quality,” said DGP KB Singh.
He said all police stations and Maoist-affected areas have been put on high alert in view of the celebrations across the state.
Similarly, elaborate security arrangements have been made in the state capital. About 25 platoons of policemen, including the newly constituted Odisha Swift Action Force, will be deployed to thwart any subversive activity and 50 CCTV cameras installed for surveillance purpose. “Picketing will be done in various places. Fire brigade and ambulances will also be kept on standby,” said Commissioner of Police Y B Khurania.