Republic Day Preparations Disrupt Flights As Delhi Tightens Airspace

Air travel faced a brief disruption on Tuesday after authorities enforced airspace restrictions at Delhi airport in connection with Republic Day preparations.

Two flights operating to and from Srinagar were cancelled following the issuance of a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), officials confirmed.

The concerned airlines called off the services due to operational limitations linked to the temporary curbs. Airport authorities clarified that the restrictions form part of standard security and logistical arrangements ahead of the January 26 celebrations.

In response, officials released a passenger advisory urging travellers to verify the latest flight status with their airlines before heading to the airport.

Authorities also asked passengers to stay in touch with carriers regarding rescheduling or refund options. They expressed regret over the inconvenience and stated that normal operations would resume once the restrictions are lifted.

Meanwhile, security agencies have significantly tightened arrangements across Delhi in the run-up to Republic Day.

The Delhi Police, along with central security forces, has placed the capital under a high-security alert to counter any potential threats.

Police Display Wanted Posters; Release Fugitive List

As part of the drive, police have displayed posters of most-wanted terrorists at railway stations, bus terminals and crowded markets.

The Delhi Police Special Cell has also released a list of fugitives linked to extremist groups such as Khalistan-linked outfits, Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent and ISIS.

Among those highlighted is Arshdeep Singh, also known as Arsh Dala, identified as the Canada-based chief of the Khalistan Tiger Force. Other names include Ranjeet Singh Neeta of the Khalistan Zindabad Force and Mohammed Abu Sufyan, linked to Al-Qaeda.

Authorities have increased security at major railway stations, including New Delhi, Nizamuddin and Anand Vihar, as well as at key bus terminals such as ISBT Kashmiri Gate and Anand Vihar.

Public address systems continue to broadcast safety advisories, urging citizens to remain vigilant.

Authorities have placed wanted posters in busy marketplaces like Sarojini Nagar, Karol Bagh, and Paharganj. They have also deployed more than 5,800 additional personnel from the BSF, CRPF, and CISF across the city.

Kartavya Path, the main venue for the Republic Day parade, remains under round-the-clock surveillance through an extensive CCTV network integrated with facial recognition technology.

Authorities have also stationed anti-drone units and sniper teams at strategic locations to counter aerial threats.