Dharavi Redevelopment: Drones and LiDAR Technology Transform Asia’s Largest Slum

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December 3, 2024

dharavi redevelopment, dharavi, Dharavi Redevelopment, adani, LiDAR technology, drone — *Dharavi redevelopment remains as one of the largest, and unique slum redevelopment projects. (Johnny Miller Photographs).*

In a groundbreaking move for urban redevelopment in India, the Dharavi Redevelopment Project (DRP) is leveraging advanced technologies like drones and Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) to map and survey Asia’s largest slum, officials announced. This high-tech approach aims to ensure precision, transparency, and efficiency in a project of immense complexity and scale.

Reimagining Dharavi: From Slum to Urban Hub

Spread across 620 acres near Mumbai’s international airport, Dharavi is home to approximately 1 million people, with 7 lakh residents likely eligible for free 350-square-foot flats under the redevelopment plan. The project, spearheaded by Dharavi Redevelopment Project Pvt Ltd—80% owned by the Adani Group—seeks to transform the slum into a modern urban hub akin to international cityscapes.

Cutting-Edge Technology at Work

For the first time in a slum redevelopment initiative, technologies like LiDAR, drones, and mobile applications are being employed:

LiDAR Mapping: Utilizing laser-based technology, LiDAR creates precise 3D models of Dharavi’s intricate terrain, structures, and pathways. Portable backpack-mounted scanners allow teams to navigate narrow lanes.
Drones: Aerial drones capture overhead imagery to complement ground-level mapping.
Digital Twin: These technologies are used to create a “digital twin” of Dharavi—a virtual replica enabling enhanced data analysis and decision-making.

This digital model aids in identifying eligible residents, resolving disputes efficiently, and minimizing errors in the data collection process.

Challenges and Community Engagement

Despite its promise, the project faces challenges, particularly skepticism among Dharavi’s residents regarding fraud or misuse of data. To address these concerns, DRP-SRA (Slum Rehabilitation Authority) has launched an extensive public engagement campaign, including:

Distribution of informational pamphlets.
Public meetings to explain survey details.
Establishment of call centers for queries.

Field supervisors are assisting residents in preparing and submitting documentation, ensuring no one is excluded from the process. Residents are provided acknowledgment slips after successful submissions, outlining the next steps in their rehabilitation journey.

Innovative Housing Solutions

The Maharashtra government has approved the acquisition of 256 acres of salt-pan land for building affordable housing, ensuring sufficient space for both current residents and relocated businesses. Surveys are ongoing to decide whether residents will be rehoused within Dharavi or relocated to alternative sites.

Redefining Slum Redevelopment in India

The Dharavi project is not just a redevelopment initiative; it’s a model for future urban rejuvenation. By embracing technology and prioritizing transparency, the DRP is setting a new standard for transforming marginalized communities into thriving urban spaces.

As Dharavi moves towards a new chapter, the success of this ambitious plan could redefine how India tackles its urban housing challenges.

Nepal and China Forge Stronger Ties with Nine-Point Agreement During PM Oli’s Beijing Visit

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Web Team

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December 3, 2024

nepal pm, oli, kp oli, xi jinping, jinping, nepal and china, nepal-china — Nepal and China Forge Stronger Ties with Nine-Point Agreement During PM Oli's Beijing Visit 3

Nepal and China have strengthened bilateral relations with a nine-point agreement signed during Prime Minister K. P. Sharma Oli’s official visit to Beijing. In a high-level meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the State Hall, the two leaders discussed various avenues of cooperation, including connectivity, industrial development, infrastructure, trade, and tourism, among other key areas.

Prime Minister Oli also held a bilateral meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, focusing on enhancing partnerships across multiple sectors such as agriculture, technology, sports, disaster management, and poverty alleviation, according to Krishna Prasad Dhakal, spokesperson for Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Key Agreements Signed

The nine-point agreement includes significant commitments and memorandums of understanding (MoUs), such as:

Infrastructure Development: Construction of the Tokha-Chhahari tunnel road near Kathmandu.
Trade and Tourism: MoU on promoting Nepal-China trade and certificates of completion for the renovation of the historic nine-storey palace in Basantapur, Kathmandu.
Agriculture and Exports: Protocol for exporting thermally processed buffalo meat to China.
Education and Media: Agreements on Chinese language education and cooperation in communication technology between Nepal Television and China Media Group.
Financial Aid: Exchange of letters on cash aid and additional economic and technical assistance.

Financial Support from China

Ahead of the visit, Nepal’s government accepted a grant of USD 20 million from China. Additionally, the Nepali Cabinet approved projects worth 300 million Chinese Yuan (approximately USD 4.13 million), further highlighting China’s growing involvement in Nepal’s development.

Prime Minister Oli’s four-day visit, which began Sunday, marks his first official trip to China since assuming office for the fourth time. He is expected to return to Nepal on December 5.

This landmark visit underscores the deepening ties between Nepal and China, with both nations committed to mutual growth and regional stability.

Kejriwal Slams Shah: ‘Resign If You Can’t Handle Delhi’s Law and Order’

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Web Team

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December 3, 2024

arvind kejriwal, kejriwal, aap, aam aadmi party, delhi, excise policy, ed, enforcement directorate, cbi — Kejriwal Slams Shah: 'Resign If You Can't Handle Delhi's Law and Order' 5

AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal launched a scathing attack on Union Home Minister Amit Shah, demanding his resignation over the alleged “chaotic” law-and-order situation in Delhi. Kejriwal accused the BJP-led Centre of failing to ensure public safety, citing the recent fatal stabbing of a youth in Pitampura as evidence of deteriorating security.

“Two youths were attacked by seven to eight local boys. Manish was stabbed multiple times and tragically died because he couldn’t reach the hospital in time. Himanshu, the other victim, survived, but police haven’t even recorded his statement,” Kejriwal said after meeting the deceased’s family.

The Delhi Chief Minister criticized the Delhi Police, alleging threats against the victims instead of action against the perpetrators. “If Amit Shah is too busy with political tours to address Delhi’s law and order, he should step down,” Kejriwal declared.

AAP to “Force” Action Amid Rising Crimes

Kejriwal alleged that crimes like drug abuse and chain snatching have become rampant across the city, instilling fear among residents. “People are afraid to step out of their homes. AAP will unite Delhiites and force the BJP-led Centre to take action to ensure public safety,” he stated.

Kejriwal also claimed he had been receiving numerous appeals from residents across the city to visit their areas and address safety concerns. “I will personally visit these places and raise their issues,” he said.

BJP Hits Back: “Diversion Tactics”

The BJP dismissed Kejriwal’s accusations, alleging that his remarks were an attempt to deflect attention from the corruption scandals and administrative failures plaguing the AAP government in Delhi.

“Instead of creating unnecessary fear about law and order, Kejriwal should introspect on AAP’s governance failures over the past decade,” a BJP spokesperson said.

With rising crime rates and political blame games escalating, Delhi’s residents remain caught in the crossfire of this heated political tussle.

SAD Set for Overhaul, Akal Takht Says Leadership Lost Moral Right to Lead ‘Sikh Panth’

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PTI

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December 3, 2024

sad, sukhbir singh badal, badal, shiromani akali dal — SAD Set for Overhaul, Akal Takht Says Leadership Lost Moral Right to Lead 'Sikh Panth' 7

The 104-year-old Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) is set for a reorganisation following the Akal Takht’s decision to form a committee to oversee elections for the party president’s post and other office bearers.

The party’s political fortunes have waned in recent years under the leadership of Sukhbir Singh Badal, who, three months ago, was declared ‘tankhaiya’ (guilty of religious misconduct) by the Akal Takht.

On Monday, the Sikh clergy issued a ‘tankhah’ (religious punishment) for Badal and other leaders for “mistakes” committed by the SAD and its government in Punjab between 2007 and 2017.

Prior to the pronouncement of the punishment, Badal admitted to several mistakes, including pardoning Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh during the SAD government’s tenure in Punjab.

Sukhbir Badal, the former deputy chief minister, was credited with the party’s victory in the 2012 assembly elections. However, the SAD won only 15 out of 117 seats in the 2017 elections and just three seats in the 2022 polls. In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the SAD won only one of the 13 parliamentary constituencies in Punjab.

These electoral setbacks let to his leadership come under scrutiny. The party recently faced the worst rebellion in its history, with a section of SAD leaders revolting against Badal over its general election results.

The five ‘Singh Sahibans’ (Sikh clergy) have announced the formation of a six-member committee to oversee the membership drive of the party, ensuring transparency and the holding of elections for the president and office bearers within six months.

Rebel party leader Gurpartap Singh Wadala, who is part of the committee, stated on Tuesday that, following the Akal Takht’s directions, all party leaders should now work collectively towards the revival of the Akali Dal.

“With Sukhbir Badal admitting his mistakes before the Akal Takht, the SAD now has a chance to rebuild its trust within the ‘Sangat’ (Sikh community),” he said. Wadala also confirmed that the ‘SAD Sudhar Lehar’ will now be disbanded.

Several rebel leaders, including Bibi Jagir Kaur, Prem Singh Chandumajra, and Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, who had previously called for Sukhbir Badal to step down, had formed the ‘SAD Sudhar Lehar’ to “strengthen and uplift” the party.

The six-member committee, announced by Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh, will comprise Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) president Harjinder Singh Dhami, party leaders Iqbal Singh Jhunda, rebel leader Gurpartap Singh Wadala, MLA Manpreet Singh Ayali, Santa Singh, and Bibi Satwant Kaur, who represents the Akal Takht.

Before announcing the committee, Singh remarked that the SAD leadership had lost its moral right to lead the ‘Sikh Panth’ due to its past mistakes and instructed the SAD’s working committee to accept the resignations of those who had tendered them.

He also urged the rebel leaders to unite and work towards strengthening the SAD, setting aside any personal rivalry or jealousy.

Sukhbir Badal had resigned from the post of SAD president last month following his ‘tankhaiya’ declaration. However, the working committee did not accept his resignation.

Badal stepped down after being found guilty of mistakes during the SAD’s rule from 2007 to 2017, including the failure to punish those responsible for the 2015 sacrilege incidents and pardoning Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh in a 2007 blasphemy case.

The SAD, which had been in an alliance with the BJP, severed ties with the party four years ago, over the issue of the now-repealed farm laws.

ISKCON Kolkata Urges Bangladesh Govt to Ensure Safety of Lawyers Willing to Represent Chinmoy Das

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PTI

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December 3, 2024

bangladesh, chinmoy das, iskcon, iskcon kolkata, hindu monk — ISKCON Kolkata Urges Bangladesh Govt to Ensure Safety of Lawyers Willing to Represent Chinmoy Das 9

The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) Kolkata has appealed to the Bangladesh government to ensure the safety of lawyers willing to represent Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das in an ongoing case, following a brutal attack on his lawyer.

ISKCON Kolkata spokesperson Radharamn Das on Monday claimed that Ramen Roy, who was defending Chinmoy Krishna Das, was attacked by a group of Islamists at his home in Bangladesh.

According to Das, no new lawyer has come forward to represent Chinmoy Krishna Das following the attack on Roy, citing safety concerns.

“No new lawyer has come up to fight his case till now. Those who want to fight the case are afraid that they might face the same consequences as Ramen Roy. We would request the Bangladesh government to provide the lawyers who are willing to fight the case with adequate safety and security,” he said.

“It must be ensured that such targeted attacks are dealt with sternly. The situation is deeply alarming and highlights the hostile environment faced by those supporting justice for minorities in Bangladesh,” he added.

According to Radharamn Das, Roy’s only “fault” was defending Chinmoy Krishna Das in court, and a group of Islamists ransacked his home.

The attack left Roy critically injured, and he is currently in the ICU, fighting for his life, ISKCON Kolkata spokesperson claimed.

“Please pray for Advocate Ramen Roy. His only ‘fault’ was defending Chinmoy Krishna Das in court. Islamists ransacked his home and brutally attacked him, leaving him in the ICU, fighting for his life. #SaveBangladeshiHindus #FreeChinmoyKrishnaPrabhu,” he posted on X along with a picture of Roy in ICU on Monday night.

Chinmoy Krishna Das, who served as a spokesperson for Bangladesh Sammilita Sanatani Jagran Jote, was arrested at Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on Monday while en route to Chattogram to attend a rally.

He was denied bail and sent to jail on Tuesday by a court in the neighbouring country.

Historically, Hindus made up approximately 22 per cent of Bangladesh’s population during the 1971 Liberation War.

The Hindu population, once a substantial demographic in Bangladesh, has experienced a significant decline in recent decades, with the minority community now comprising only around 8 per cent of the country’s total population.

This drop is largely attributed to a combination of socio-political marginalisation, exodus and sporadic violence over the years.

Caretaker Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde Taken to Hospital for Check-Up

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PTI

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December 3, 2024

eknath shinde, jupitar hospital, thane, maharashtra cm, caretaker cm — Caretaker Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde Taken to Hospital for Check-Up 11

Caretaker Chief Minister of Maharashtra Eknath Shinde was taken to a private hospital in the city on Tuesday morning for a “routine check-up”, a close aide said.

“I am fine, do not worry,” Shinde told reporters as he was driven to Jupiter Hospital.

Shiv Sena leader Uday Samant said it was a “routine check-up”, and Shinde would return to his official residence `Varsha’ in Mumbai afterwards.

“He has had throat infection, weakness and fever. He would be undergoing a blood test,” Samant added.

Shinde, whose party is a constituent of the BJP-led Mahayuti coalition, has been unwell for the last few days, and staying at his private residence here.

His decision to head to his village Dare in Satara district last Friday had sparked speculation that he was unhappy over the way the new Mahayuti government was shaping up.

His aides, however, said he was not well and put it down to the exertion during the campaign for the last month’s Maharashtra assembly elections.

Political Chess in Maharashtra: Who Will Checkmate the CM’s Chair?

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Vaidehi Taman

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December 3, 2024

maharashtra, maharashtra elections, cm, chief minister, maharashtra cm, eknath shinde, devendra fadnavis, checkmate, ajit pawar — Political Chess in Maharashtra: Who Will Checkmate the CM's Chair? 13

The buzz from Maharashtra to Delhi revolves around a singular question: Who will emerge as the next Chief Minister of Maharashtra—Devendra Fadnavis or Eknath Shinde? The suspense persists despite the swearing-in ceremony slated for December 5. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) high command has assigned Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and former CM Vijay Rupani as observers to untangle this political puzzle. Their task is to consult the three alliance partners and clarify the state’s leadership.

Tensions Within the Mahayuti Alliance

The Shinde-Fadnavis standoff over the CM’s position has intensified with Ajit Pawar entering the scene. While Pawar doesn’t seek the top post, he’s locked in a portfolio tussle with Shinde’s Shiv Sena faction. The lobbying for key ministries like Public Works, Urban Development, and Finance has both camps stationed in Delhi, negotiating with BJP leaders.

Even ten days after the Assembly election results, the formation of Maharashtra’s government remains elusive. Eknath Shinde continues as caretaker CM, while the Shiv Sena (Uddhav faction) demands President’s Rule, citing prolonged uncertainty. Speculations abound about Fadnavis’s return to the CM’s office, supported by Shinde and Pawar as deputies. However, no official announcement has been made.

The Mahayuti’s landslide victory—132 seats for the BJP, 57 for Shinde’s Shiv Sena, and 41 for Pawar’s NCP—has overshadowed its internal discord. While Shinde attributes the win to his “common man” image and stands firm on retaining the CM position, Fadnavis’s ambitions loom large.

The BJP’s Dilemma

The BJP faces a strategic conundrum. If Fadnavis becomes CM, Shinde might rebel, destabilising the alliance. Conversely, retaining Shinde as CM could alienate Fadnavis and his supporters. The party’s options include elevating Fadnavis to a national role while keeping Shinde as CM or merging Shinde’s faction into the BJP to consolidate power.

History serves as a reminder: internal rifts previously fractured alliances, with Uddhav Thackeray’s demand for the CM post splitting the BJP and Shiv Sena. The BJP must tread cautiously to avoid similar upheaval.

Conclusion

In this high-stakes political chess game, every move is critical. Whether the BJP sacrifices its rook to safeguard its king or risks a bold gamble, the coming days will reveal Maharashtra’s political trajectory. As the suspense builds, one thing remains clear: the drama is far from over.

Mamata Banerjee’s Call for UN Peacekeepers in Bangladesh Sparks BJP Fury

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Web Team

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December 3, 2024

mamata benerjee, mamata, tmc, trinamool congress, suvendu adhikari, bangladesh, un peacekeepers — Mamata Banerjee's Call for UN Peacekeepers in Bangladesh Sparks BJP Fury 15

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stirred political controversy by urging the Centre to involve the United Nations in deploying peacekeepers to Bangladesh, citing the persecution of Hindu minorities. The BJP, however, dismissed her plea as “crocodile tears” and accused her of failing to take concrete action.

Speaking in the state assembly, Banerjee criticized the Centre for its “inaction” over the deteriorating situation in Bangladesh, where attacks on Hindu minorities have intensified. She proposed the deployment of an international peacekeeping force to restore normalcy and urged the Union government to clarify its position in Parliament.

Banerjee said, “We can rehabilitate the persecuted Indians from Bangladesh. Sharing one roti is not a problem if the need arises. There will be no shortage of food for them.” She also called for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to address the issue with Bangladesh’s interim government or escalate it to the UN.

On the other hand, BJP Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari joined protests organized at the Petrapole international border. He threatened an “indefinite export embargo” against Bangladesh if attacks on Hindus and their institutions continue. “If these atrocities don’t stop, we will impose a complete export ban. Let’s see how they survive without our potatoes and onions,” Adhikari warned.

BJP Questions Mamata’s Intentions

While welcoming the suggestion of UN peacekeepers, Adhikari claimed he had raised this demand earlier and accused Banerjee of merely posturing. He criticized her government for allegedly barricading protests last week against the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission in Kolkata.

“Mamata Banerjee should stop shedding crocodile tears. This is an existential crisis for Bengali-speaking Hindus, not a political gimmick,” Adhikari said.

BJP leader Amit Malviya echoed similar sentiments, accusing Banerjee of hypocrisy and inaction. He emphasized that Banerjee’s MPs should raise the issue in Parliament if she truly cares about protecting Hindus in Bangladesh.

Banerjee also took a dig at the BJP, asking why its central leadership wasn’t proactively addressing the Bangladesh crisis. “The BJP’s leaders are demanding trade closures, but such actions are governed by international agreements, not state decisions,” she clarified.

As protests intensify along the border and political blame games escalate, the situation in Bangladesh continues to fuel debates within India. While the BJP demands stronger action against the persecution of Hindus, Banerjee’s call for UN intervention adds a new layer of complexity to the diplomatic crisis.

Maharashtra Legislature Party to Pick CM on Wednesday; Sitharaman, Rupani Named Observers

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PTI

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December 2, 2024

vijay rupani, nirmala sitharaman, bjp, maharashtra legislature party, maharashtra — Maharashtra Legislature Party to Pick CM on Wednesday; Sitharaman, Rupani Named Observers 17

The name of the Maharashtra chief minister will be announced on Wednesday, a day ahead of the swearing-in ceremony of the Mahayuti government, after the BJP elects its legislature party leader, a senior functionary said on Monday.

The BJP on Monday named Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and former Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani as central observers for its Maharashtra legislature party’s meeting, where the MLAs will elect their leader.

“Rupani and Sitharaman would meet the BJP’s elected representatives in Mumbai on Wednesday. Following this meeting, the chosen candidate’s name will be relayed to senior leaders in Delhi. These observers will then announce the elected leader of the BJP, who is set to be the next chief minister,” the BJP functionary told PTI.

The BJP has already announced that the new chief minister will take oath on December 5 at Azad Maidan in Mumbai in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other leaders.

Though the party has not made any formal announcement, a senior BJP leader on Sunday claimed Devendra Fadnavis’ name has been finalised for the CM’s post.

The BJP’s two main allies in the Mahayuti colation, the Shiv Sena and Nationalist Congress Party, are each tipped to be given deputy CM positions in the new government.

Eknath Shinde, who is the caretaker chief minister, has already made it clear that he will not come in the way of BJP getting the chief minister’s post.

In the recently concluded state polls, the Mahayuti won 230 of the 288 assembly seats. The BJP led with 132 seats, while the Shiv Sena got 57 and NCP 41 seats.

Massive Jams at Delhi-Noida Border as Police Set Up Barricades to Stop Farmers’ March

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PTI

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December 2, 2024

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Massive traffic snarls caused inconvenience to commuters crossing the Delhi-Noida border on Monday as police set up multiple barricades and deployed heavy security in view of a farmers’ protest march towards the national capital.

Farmers gathered at the Mahamaya flyover on the Dadri-Noida link road and began their march around 11.30 am to press their demands for land allocation and increased compensation for their lands acquired by the government, among other things. The protest call was given by the Bharatiya Kisan Parishad (BKP).

According to the BKP, farmers from 20 districts of Uttar Pradesh, including Aligarh and Agra, took part in the march.

Carrying banners and flags of various farmer groups, hundreds of protesters crossed the initial barricades erected by Noida Police. While some climbed over the barricades, others pushed them.

They were finally stopped by police near Dalit Prerna Sthal on Noida Link Road, around 1 km from the Chilla border, an entry point to Delhi. Senior police officers tried to pacify the protesting farmers.

Due to the farmers protest and checking by police, commuters travelling via Chilla border, DND flyway, Delhi Gate and Kalindi Kunj faced heavy traffic for hours.

Aprajita Singh, a resident of Greater Noida, said the barricades put up at the Chilla border were causing major inconvenience to commuters.

“It took me about an hour to get through that stretch. Police have set up barricades on both sides of the Delhi-Noida border, causing significant traffic congestion, especially on the carriageway from Noida to Delhi,” she said.

Another commuter, Amit Thakur of Noida, said due to the heavy traffic, he ditched his car and took the metro to get to work.

“When I checked the traffic situation before leaving for my office in central Delhi, it showed heavy congestion near the Chilla border, adding an hour to the travel time. So, I decided to take the metro instead,” he said.

On Sunday, Noida Police issued a traffic advisory informing commuters about route closures and diversions.

Delhi Police also put up multiple barricades and deployed security personnel at the Chilla border on Noida link road, DND flyway and Kalindi Kunj border.

A senior Delhi Police officer said checking was underway at border points and drones were being used for surveillance.

Additional Commissioner of Police (East) Sagar Singh Kalsi said, “We have made adequate arrangements at east Delhi borders and have taken all precautionary measures, including anti-riot equipment. We are using drones for vigilance and are also coordinating with traffic police for smooth vehicular movement in the area.” Joint Commissioner of Police (Southern Range) S K Jain said police are also coordinating with their Noida counterparts.

“We have two key borders in southeast district — DND border and Kalindi Kunj. Since Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) is imposed in the New Delhi area and Parliament is in session, protests without permission are strictly prohibited.

“To manage this, we have increased security at both borders. Proper barricades, jersey barriers and hydra cranes have been deployed. We will stop those who will try to forcibly enter the city,” he stated.

Currently, the situation at the border is normal, Jain said.

A group of farmers from Punjab, led by Samyukta Kisan Morcha (non-political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM), has called for a march towards Delhi on December 6. The group has been camping at Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana since February 13.