US Secret Service sets up ‘Green Zone’ in Washington before inauguration

In an extraordinary move, the US Secret Service has set up a safe zone in the nation’s capital as part of security precautions for the inauguration of president-elect Joe Biden after an insurrection at the US Capitol last week.

The restricted area encompasses roads, subway stations and parts of Washington that only locals can enter.

“Vehicle traffic [will be] restricted to residents or businesses within the restricted area and National Guard personnel will be assisting with verifying traffic entering into the Green Zone,” the Secret Service said.

The term “Green Zone” can refer to an area into which entry is permitted or closely controlled, such as the highly secure district of Baghdad used by coalition forces.

Mr Biden will be sworn in during a ceremony on Wednesday, when the National Mall will be closed to pedestrians. The grounds often attract celebratory crowds who gather outdoors to watch the inauguration on large TV screens.

The heightened security is because of growing concerns of armed protests and potential violence after a pro-Trump mob stormed the Capitol.

The FBI said there may be armed protests in Washington and in state capitals across the country in the days leading up to the inauguration.

City and national leaders have called for people to stay away from the area and instead to watch the proceedings online, to avoid the coronavirus as well as potential unrest.

The National Parks Service confirmed the Mall will be closed at the request of the Secret Service.

There will also be a “Red Zone,” the Secret Service announced, with “vehicle traffic restricted to authorised vehicles only with [a] proper vehicle placard”.

The Secret Service said roads near the White House, Lincoln Memorial, National Mall and the Capitol will be closed until Friday.

Thousands of National Guard members have been sent to the area.

The Green Zone comprises the areas surrounding the Red Zone. The zones form an extensive security perimeter encompassing the White House, legislative buildings, other government institutions and monuments in and around the National Mall.

This also affects city residents and local businesses. Concrete barriers, military vehicles and metal fencing with razor wire are being moved into position.

As a result, bus and Metro services will be affected and will be rerouted, skipping stops or manoeuvring around the security perimeters. Car parks in the area have also been shut.

The Customs and Border Protection agency said it would contribute towards enforcing security.

City and national leaders have called for the public to watch the proceedings online