Delhi tightens security following terror alerts

New Delhi: Shoppers kept away from popular market places in Delhi yesterday as security was tightened in and around the national capital following terror alerts from the US and three other countries warning of "imminent attacks" in the city.

The US, Australia, Britain and Canada issued fresh security advisories to their citizens on Saturday and warned of "imminent" terror attacks, prompting the government to step up vigil.

Drastic fall

The major markets of Connaught Place, Lajpat Nagar and Sarojini Nagar, frequented by tourists, saw drastic fall in footfalls.

"The number of people coming to our restaurant fell by more than 50 per cent since yesterday [Saturday] evening. Security has been increased. When I came here in the morning, I saw cops everywhere," Anil Kumar, assistant manager at the Sancho's Mexican restaurant in Connaught Place, said.

Sarojini Nagar market in south Delhi also wore a changed look with security personnel everywhere. CCTVs monitored the place while continuous announcements were being made over the public address system advising shoppers to be cautious.

"There is a drastic fall in the number of customers. The market looks almost empty today [yesterday] except for large number of policemen guarding the area," Ashok Randhawa, a member of the Sarojini Nagar Market Association, said.