Security personnel relieved as Games conclude

NEW DELHI - Over one lakh security personnel in the capital heaved a sigh of relief Thursday as the Commonwealth Games concluded peacefully.

Delhi Police and paramilitary forces like the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) were given the task of securing the capital for the twelve-day extravaganza which began Oct 3. Over 6,000 athletes from 71 nations and territories participated in the Games.

But police say their work is still not over.

“Some athletes are still in the capital. Tight security will be kept at the venues for the next few days too,” said Rajan Bhagat, spokesperson of Delhi Police.

With the ongoing Durga Puja festivities and Ramlila functions all over the capital, security remains top priority, Bhagat said.

The security personnel on field duty said it was a matter of pride for them that the Games were successful.

“Delhi Police have showed great team effort. We have shown the world that India is capable of holding international events and we can provide foolproof security,” said Karnail Singh, Joint Commissioner of Police (Northern range).

Managing traffic was one of the most difficult tasks during the Games. Dedicated lanes for the Games ensured smooth passage for buses carrying athletes and officials. This, however, often led to massive jams.

“More than 5,000 traffic personnel were deployed for the Games duty. The normal task of regulating traffic continues for us, but we are satisfied that we have done a good job,” said Joint Commissioner (Traffic) Satyendra Garg.

Para-military personnel were drawn from various parts of the country, and vigilance was tightened in the run-up to the event. Over 100 fortified pickets were set up at Metro stations, and markets, commercial establishments and offices were shut for the day for the opening and closing ceremonies.