Successful ATM robberies may be rare, but the regular attempts have raised questions on the preparedness of security guards.
In most parts of the city, elderly citizens are found guarding the ATMs. One reason why senior citizens are found so often is the process by which security agencies are selected. “The lowest bidder is selected,” says Captain Shibu Issac, president of Central Association of Private Security Industry.
This often leads to compromises on the question of efficiency. “The guards are supposed to be energetic but such security is often expensive. So, government banks opt for agencies which take just Rs. 7,000 per month” a marketing head of a private security agency added.
Besides, there should be an alarm system which causes the shutters to come down immediately when there is a burglary attempt. “The CCTV cameras in different ATMs can be monitored from the nearest police stations. There is no point in checking the footage after a heist,” suggests a retired police officer.
However there seems to be a ray of hope. “Quite a few government banks are coming forward to appoint security guards unmindful of the expenses involved,” adds Mr. Issac.
(Reporting by Vivek Narayanan)
