Delhi G20 Summit: Hotels to Have 'Armouries' to Prevent 26/11-Like Situation During Mega Event

As part of preparations for the G20 Summit scheduled on September 9-10, the intelligence establishment has set up armouries in hotels in the national capital to avoid any shortage of ammunition in case of a terrorist attack during the mega event.

According to a TOI report, these storehouses will have loaded magazines, bullets, stun and smoke grenades, medical supplies, wireless set chargers and backup weapons for troops.

“Many of the suggestions given by veterans in the aftermath of the terror attacks in Mumbai in 2008 have been incorporated to secure the G20 summit. Most of the measures relate to avoiding surprises in case of any contingency,” an intelligence officer said.

The idea of setting up such armouries was first discussed during a security preparedness meeting in Lutyens’ Delhi a few months back.

“It was decided that a proper supply chain would be maintained as a backup for the commandos. If at all an attack takes place, the supply team will follow the main team with the required materials. They will not have to run back for supplies. This will ensure that the op is completed without glitch or hindrance,” another intelligence officer noted.

Security agencies have also installed anti-drone mechanisms on the rooftops of all hotels aimed to bring down any unidentified drones flying in the vicinity. Pragati Maidan is likely to be declared a no-fly zone during the summit.

As many as 16 hotels in the city are set to host the visiting dignitaries, delegates and heads of state.

An elaborate security arrangement which includes using advanced intrusion alert systems and posture detection mechanisms and deploying deputy commissioner-rank police officers as “venue commanders”, has been put in place to prevent any untoward incident during the summit.

The venue commanders will liaise with the foreign security team members in coordination with the Intelligence Bureau and Research and Analysis Wing officers.

The cops and security personnel will be given three rooms in the hotel, two of which will be converted into security control rooms under the watch of the venue commander.