Security tightened for Sonia's election rally

Phagwara, Feb 6 (UNI) Security has been beefed-up for Congress President Sonia Gandhi's election rally to be held here tomorrow.

The Punjab Police have pressed into service special police parties for patrolling the highways, particularly in the areas around Dana Mandi, the rally venue. Ms Gandhi will be arriving here after addressing her first election rally in Jandiala in Amritsar district.

A security blanket has been thrown over the rally venue.

Policemen in civil clothes would mingle with people during the rally to keep an eye on suspicious persons.

As many as 2,000 policemen, including IPS officers, DSP's, inspectors, sub-inspectors and head constables were being deployed to oversee the security arrangements.

In a press release issued today, ASP Dr Sukhchain Singh Gill said that though all arrangements have been made for the smooth flow of traffic, there could be unexpected stoppages at some points.

All motorists proceeding towards Banga, Nawanshahar, Mahilpur and Chandigarh would be diverted through the Chachoki-Mukandpur road.

The traffic coming from Chandigarh and Nawanshahar would enter the town through the Mehli bypass.

There would no entry for heavy vehicles from Sugar Mill Chowk onto Banga Road and to the Sabzi Mandi.

UNI