Security tightened in Taj city ahead of Independence Day

Agra, Aug 8 (IANS) District authorities have made elaborate security arrangements at the historical monuments and several hot spots in the city, ahead of Independence Day, August 15.

So far, there has been no effort to instigate or mobilise support against the Union government's decision to restructure Jammu and Kashmir but intelligence inputs have alerted the CISF, which looks after internal security in the Taj Mahal and other monuments in Agra.

District Magistrate N.G. Ravi Kumar said appropriate steps have been taken to tighten security within the city, including regular patrolling by the police.

The tourist season is about to start in a few weeks. The local hoteliers expect a big rush this year. The Taj Mahal is visited by 25,000-30,000 tourists everyday. On public holidays the number goes upto 50,000.

Additional police forces are being deployed at the Taj Mahal to ensure smooth movement of tourists. A number of CCTV cameras have been installed to keep a watch on people.

Authorities said special orders have been given to ensure safety and security of Kashmiri students in Agra.

Meanwhile, the Agra Municipal Corporation has begun testing its central monitoring command system. A control room with 30 computers and dozens of CCTV cameras at vantage points in the city will keep a continuous vigil and monitor mobility within the city.

This is a unique experiment that authorities are hoping will bring about drastic changes in the civic life of Agra.