Driving lessons, for Obama

US Secret Service officials learn to navigate Delhi roads

As the President of the United States, Barack Obama steers the agenda of world politics and economics, but those who actually drive the President might find Delhi roads a tough proposition.



To make the drivers of President Obama's cavalcade feel at home on the Capital's streets, special training is being imparted to them.

"The US Secret Service, along with their advance team, have sent drivers of the cavalcade of the President to adapt to the Indian style of roads which is opposite to that of the United States of America," sources in the Intelligence Bureau told MiD DAY.

"As the US Secret Services is fully aware of the fact that Indian roads pattern are different, they have sent their drivers a few days ahead of President's schedule to acclimatize themselves to avoid any discomfort to the President's cavalcade during his visit," they said.

According to reports, six armoured cars and 40 aircraft will accompany US President Barack Obama during his three-day visit to India.

Six armoured cars, all Limousines, have reached Mumbai from the USA which will be used during the President's stay in India. The cars will come to Delhi on November 5, an IB official said. Sources further said, according to the protocol, an IB officer is supposed to accompany the head of the state in the car, but they are never sure as far as USA is concerned as they keep making changes in their schedules due to security reasons.

"There will be multiple ring security for the President in which the Delhi police will man the third and the last ring. US Secret Services will form the first line of defence," said a senior Delhi police official.
Twenty-one US Secret Service teams have already recced Mumbai.