R-Day celebrations cut short by rain

Kolkata, Jan 26 (UNI) Unseasonal showers marred the 59th Republic Day here today as the celebrations had to be cut short.

West Bengal Governor Gopal Krishna Gandhi unfurled the tricolour and took the guard of honour from the state military personnel at a parade on the Red Road as they displayed their strength, bravery and patriotism.

Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee and other important dignitaries were present.

However, the celebrations were marred to a great extent by the rain gods.

Kolkata and the district headquarters had been brought under tight security and the state's borders with Nepal and Bangladesh were sealed for the day to ensure peaceful celebrations.

Police contingents were deployed at all the strategic locations, including airports, railway stations, important government and private establishments.

The Kolkata Port Trust, Eastern Railway and South Eastern Railway also observed the day.

The national flag was also unfurled at various government and private buildings, educational institutions as well as residential complexes as people commemorated the sacrifices made by the country's freedom fighters.

The downpour sent people indoors and the traditional morning parade by the school children was also missing.

UNI DPM PL RD 1226