There will be blasts in Delhi, Noida on August 15: Call from US puts police on high alert

As the security forces gear up to tackle the heightened terror threat around Independence Day celebrations, a phone call received by a Noida resident has added to their concern. According to reports, the Noida cops have alerted their Delhi counterparts after receiving a threat call about blasts across the national capital region on August 15. THE THREAT CALL A Noida resident - Amit - received a call on Thursday (August 11). "Hello...there will be blasts in Delhi and Noida," the caller hung up without giving any more details. Amit first thought it to be some kind of a prank, however, he decided to approach the police. The call has been traced to San Francisco, US. Agencies are not revealing much about the details of the incident due to the sensitivity of the matter. While there is a good probability of the call being a hoax but security agencies are taking no chance. UNPRECEDENTED SECURITY COVER The Delhi Police, meanwhile, has prepared a foolproof plan to deny terrorists any chance of creating trouble during Independence Day celebrations. Police Commissioner Alok Verma has cancelled leaves of all cops for August 15. Cops have been directed to keep sufficient bullet-proof jackets in every PCR van. Areas around Red Fort , which will host the main event on August 15, have been put under a massive security cover. Everything that moves, or does not - from trees and windows, to residents and beggars - will be under the radar of security agencies who will take no chance as Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hoist the national flag and deliver his speech. For better security, police has also got over 3,000 trees pruned in and around the venue. These trees will be thoroughly checked and will be guarded by security personnel. PM MODI ON TARGET OF A TERROR OUTFIT According to a senior Delhi police officer, the Prime Minister is on the target of a terror outfit and they are always looking for new ways to attack him. Based on the inputs from other intelligence agencies we have mapped all the residents, trees, and other vital set-up near the venue, he said. Officials said that the panaromic view that the PM will face has been kept in mind and all buildings facing the Red Fort are being checked. According to Delhi Police, close to 600 balconies and 100 windows open to a clear view of the monument.