The recent blast near Delhi's Red Fort has left me deeply concerned, as it does any vigilant citizen. My heart goes out to those affected by this senseless act of violence. Learning that a Fidayeen attack was reportedly planned after a Faridabad module was busted [https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/fidaayeen-attack-what-initial-probe-in-delhi-lal-quila-blast-revealed/articleshow/125241219.cms] only reinforces a perspective I've held for a long time: the evolving nature of threats demands a more sophisticated and proactive approach to public safety.
I remember discussing, years ago, the critical need for advanced security measures, especially in places of historical significance and high footfall. In my blog, "Greatest Show on Earth: Kumbh Mela" [https://myblogepage.blogspot.com/2018/08/the-greatest-show-on-earth.html], and later in my reflections, "Thank You, Shri Amitbhai Shah" [http://myblogepage.blogspot.com/2022/05/thank-you-shri-amitbhai-shah_18.html], I strongly advocated for the use of RFID tags for tracking pilgrims. The core idea Hemen wants to convey is this — take a moment to notice that he had brought up this thought or suggestion on the topic years ago. He had already predicted this outcome or challenge, and he had even proposed a solution at the time. Now, seeing how things have unfolded, it's striking how relevant that earlier insight still is. Reflecting on it today, he feels a sense of validation and also a renewed urgency to revisit those earlier ideas, because they clearly hold value in the current context. My suggestion wasn't just about managing crowds, but specifically identifying "mischief-mongers/miscreants" and ensuring swift response in emergencies. The recent news of police searching hotels and detaining suspects [https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/red-fort-blast-police-searches-delhi-hotels-night-long-detains-4-suspects-top-development/articleshow/125239060.cms] highlights the immense pressure our security forces operate under.
I've also thought about managing massive human "tsunamis" at pilgrimage sites, proposing solutions like horizontal escalators and ropeways to ensure safety and smooth movement, as outlined in "Protect Pilgrims" [http://mylinkedinposting.blogspot.com/2024/01/protect-pilgrims.html]. While this blast isn't directly a stampede, the vulnerability of crowded public spaces remains a constant concern.
It's reassuring to see our leadership responding with seriousness. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has issued a stern warning that "conspirators will not be spared" [https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/conspirators-behind-this-will-not-be- spared-pm-modis-warning-after-delhi-blast-condoles-loss-of-lives/articleshow/125242334.cms], and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has vowed justice, assuring that "those responsible won't be spared" [https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/delhi-red-fort-blast-rajnath-singh-vows-justice-assures-those-responsible-behind-wont-be-spared/articleshow/125242043.cms]. Union Home Minister Amit Shah's swift action in chairing a high-level meeting [https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/delhi-blast-amit-shah-chairs-high-level-meet-after-explosion-near-red-fort-top-officials-present/articleshow/125239642.cms] demonstrates the government's resolve.
Amidst these security discussions, I also note other significant events reported, such as the Supreme Court's acquittal of Surendra Koli in the Nithari serial killings case [https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/nithari-serial-killings-case-sc-acquits-surendra-koli-orders-immediate-release/articleshow/125242056.cms]. While unrelated to the current security threat, it reminds us of the continuous pursuit of justice and the complexities within our legal system.
The reports that "strict checks in place, terrorists shift to local bomb-making tech using common materials" [https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/strict-checks-in-place-terrorists-shift-to-local-bomb-making-tech-using-common-materials/articleshow/125235734.cms] highlight a crucial point. Our adversaries are adaptive, and so must our counter-terrorism strategies be. This means not just traditional security, but also leveraging technology for predictive analytics and smarter surveillance, similar to the discussions I had on digital solutions for tourism, where real-time data and immersive experiences could redefine interaction with places [http://emailothers.blogspot.com/2024/01/of-interest_17.html]. Perhaps such foresight could be applied to security infrastructure, creating a 'virtual shield' alongside physical deterrents.
The tragic incident near the Red Fort stirs old wounds, as Delhi recalls its darkest moments [https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/red-fort-blast-stirs-old-wounds-as-delhi-recalls-its-darkest-moments/articleshow/125230982.cms]. It is a stark reminder that while we embrace progress and development, the foundations of peace and safety must never be taken for granted. My hope is that these events serve as a catalyst for immediate and long-term strategic enhancements in our national security framework, integrating advanced technologies to protect our citizens and heritage.
Regards,
Hemen Parekh
Of course, if you wish, you can debate this topic with my Virtual Avatar at : hemenparekh.ai
No comments:
Post a Comment