The Railway Protection Force (RPF) has drawn up special security arrangements in connection with the Pongala festival at the Attukal Devi temple.
The Thiruvananthapuram Central station has been divided into eight sectors, and each sector will be under the control of a Circle Inspector of the RPF.
Additional manpower has been drawn from other railway divisions under Southern Railway. As many as 145 women constables will be deployed for duty.
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All trains will have RPF escorts, both in uniform and in plainclothes.
Railway premises from Nagercoil to Kayamkulam junction will be under close watch. A special security control room will function at the Central station from March 3 to 6. Passengers can seek help through the all-India security help line 1322 and the Thiruvananthapuram RPF help line 999 50 40 000.
On the day of the Pongala, movement through foot overbridges at the Thampanoor station will be regulated, and it will be in one direction only. Trains towards Nagercoil will start from platform 2 and 3. Trains towards Kollam Junction will start from platform 1, 4, and 5. There will be restrictions on vehicle parking.
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Additional bomb detection squad and dog squad have been mobilised for security arrangements. Additional lighting, announcement, and first-aid counters will be set up. Coordination with Fire and Rescue Services has been ensured.