The Hindu : Tamil Nadu / Chennai News : Threat to blow up trains: railway stations under scanner

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Tuesday, Jul 29, 2008
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Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu - Chennai

Threat to blow up trains: railway stations under scanner

Special Correspondent

CHENNAI: In a joint operation, Government Railway Police and Railway Protection Force personnel have intensified security measures at stations and trains.

The move follows specific intelligence inputs that suspected fundamentalists were planning to blow up two express trains, including the Chennai-Madurai Vaigai superfast express.

According to Inspector-General of Police (Railways) G. Uma Ganapathi Shastry heightened security arrangements were in place at all major stations.

While empty rakes were checked before being let into platforms, sniffer dogs were pressed into service to check parcels and luggage. “We have enhanced vigil at wayside stations and major bridges. Open line track patrolling is being done in coordination with the railway authorities. GRP personnel were escorting all important trains,” he told The Hindu here on Monday.

Doorframe metal detectors were installed at all entry points and plainclothesmen with metal detectors were deployed at vulnerable points. Surveillance camera network of the RPF was closely being monitored at different stations.

Passengers could dial the toll-free ‘9962500500’ in case they found any suspicious or abandoned baggage on railway premises. Anti-sabotage checks were conducted at railway yards, retiring rooms, dormitories and parcel office as a precautionary measure.

Adequate Railway Protection Force has been posted at all important railway stations, especially on platforms, passenger waiting halls, circulating/ concourse hall, parking lots, etc and their conspicuous presence is ensured to enhance the safety and security of rail passengers.

Random screening

According to a railway press release, close surveillance is kept on suspicious persons on platforms, waiting halls, circulating hall, etc. through the CCTV network wherever available and by posting plainclothes personnel to keep a discreet watch. Constant vigil is kept at all access points. Security at important suburban stations in Chennai Division is strengthened by mobilising additional force.

Baggage and passenger belongings are being checked randomly at important stations.

At Chennai Central, baggage and passenger belongings are being checked through X-ray scanning machine by RPF/GRP.

Awareness programmes for licensed porters and authorised vendors are being conducted in all divisions. Close liaison is maintained with State/Central intelligence agencies regarding the activities of anti-social elements.

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