The annual ‘numaish’ beginning on January 1 will have increased security this year.
The Exhibition Society is stepping up security measures in view of the rising tempers on the State bifurcation issue.
Three-tier security is being planned for the 46-day event which attracts thousands of visitors every day.
Authorities don’t expect the Telangana imbroglio to cast a shadow on the 74 Industrial Exhibition. “All the same we want to be on the alert. The safety measures proposed are more of a confidence-building exercise,” says Ashwin Margam, honorary secretary, Exhibition Society.
As many as 25 CCTVs and as many night vision cameras will keep a round-the-clock vigil on the sprawling exhibition ground.
Authorities are also installing 8-channel digital video recorders to keep a watch on trouble makers. Besides there will be 15 door frame metal detectors, 25 hand held detectors, 6 under vehicle security mirrors, 6 walkie-talkies and two mega phones.
This apart two dog squads, 95 security guards and eight supervisors are being requisitioned. A round-the-clock control room will monitor the whole security set up.
VolunteersThe Exhibition Society will deploy its own volunteers numbering 125 besides 40 watch and ward staff. In all there will be 75 male guards and 20 female guards to keep a tab on the goings on.
A top notch security agency is being engaged to ensure hassle-free entertainment to visitors.
New attractionsThis time around there will be quite a few new attractions at the numaish.
For one the Hyderabad Metro Rail will be exhibiting its model coach. The half coach being installed opposite the Ajanta Gate will have platforms on both sides to lend a touch of reality. Visitors can obtain all the information about the elevated rail and see the different routes it will ply on.
“Last year the Metro Rail stall attracted 10 lakh visitors. We expect a good turnout this time also,” says HMR Managing Director N.V.S. Reddy.
The Reserve Bank of India will also have a big display here. There will be 24 stalls to educate the public on various aspects. Children can look forward to some new rides like disc-o-coaster and cup-saucer ride. One can also look forward to more greenery in the exhibition ground with the existing four parks being spruced up.
Entry ticket will be Rs. 20 on all days for both adults and children. However, children below five years will have free entry.
Parking problemBut the authorities express helplessness about the parking problem leaving visitors at the mercy of the parking lot owners who indulge in open loot. Exhibition Society has fixed an exclusive day for ladies on January 7 and children’s day on January 31.
