Republic Day: Full dress rehearsal leads to traffic snarls

New Delhi 23 (UNI) Schoolchildren and armed forces contingents today took part in the final dress rehearsal of the Republic Day Parade, three days ahead of the main event, throwing traffic out of gear on all arterial roads of the capital.

Tableaux from different states, organisations and institutions rolled down the streets, showcasing their history and achievements.

The rehearsal also led to traffic snarls in the capital, with India Gate and its arterial roads remaining out of bounds for people till mid-day for about three hours. Barricades have been erected on the Rajpath, sections of which will remain closed for traffic till January 26.

Drills and ceremonial parade by contingents from the armed forces, NCC, Bharat Scouts and Guides were held as part of the programme.

French President Nicolas Sarkozy will arrive on January 25 to be the chief guest for the parade.

Elaborate security arrangements have been put in place across the city for the Republic Day ceremonies with extra reinforcements.

Special security drills are being carried out at some of the entry and exit points of the city and random searches executed at the vantage points.

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