As part of the comprehensive security measures for the Republic Day parade on Monday, the city police had, for the first time, used a ‘Backscatter van’ to check for explosives and weapons.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Sandeep Patil said that the van is a mobile X-ray cargo and vehicle screening system made in the US. It is fitted with an X- ray machine uses Backscatter technology to provide photo-like images of concealed objects, which is used to look for hidden explosives, drugs, currency or trade-fraud related items. The van patrolled in and around MG Road and even at Manekshaw parade ground.
"This is less time consuming compared to physical frisking since a police personnel sitting with a laptop can completely scan a person or a vehicle passing by," he said. “We rented this van from a private company and are contemplating purchasing one," Mr. Patil said.
