World | India
Security cover in train stations and airport
Policemen with loaded machine guns and rifles are stopping people carrying shoulder bags on roads, shopping complexes and even on beaches for a thorough search. Taxis and cars are being randomly stopped.
- By Sunita Menon, Staff Reporter
- Published: 00:00 July 14, 2006
Mumbai: Policemen with loaded machine guns and rifles are stopping people carrying shoulder bags on roads, shopping complexes and even on beaches for a thorough search. Taxis and cars are being randomly stopped.
Security is at its maximum in Mumbai and also at the Chattrapati Shivaji International Airport where passenger baggage is being checked manually and electronically. Airport visitors are also under scrutiny.
The scene is similar to that at local train stations where the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and the Railway Special Task Force (RSTF) are on patrol with metal detectors and sniffer dogs. Every single commuter is checked thoroughly before he is allowed to leave the station.
Names and contact numbers of commuters carrying shoulder bags, suitcases and computers are recorded. Close circuit cameras are being installed at the entry and exit points of all railway stations.
"The city is on high alert. We are not taking any chances," said U.K. Mishra from the RPF battalion of Madhya Pradesh. "Our battalion has been deployed to assist Mumbai railway police. The RPF and the RSTF are working in close coordination with each other," added Mishra on duty at Mahim station.
The two battalions are on duty for the past 36 hours without a break. Anyone seen loitering unnecessarily or seemingly looking tense is quietly taken to a corner and interrogated.
K. Shiv Kumar of the RSTF, on duty at the Churchgate station, said that the city will get more help from other states. "We are quite stressed. It is no easy task monitoring commuters and railway tracks during rush hours. Things are running smoothly because of the enormous patience and understanding shown by the public.
"Thorough checks are also run on the tracks before the morning and evening rush hours. All ladies compartments have women police personnel."
TALKING POINT
"We do not mind getting delayed for work because of the security checks. It is better than being blown up in an explosion," said Munjula Nagpade a saleswoman at a jewellery showroom in Andheri West.
"With so much security around I feel secure," said Kriti Desai a Class 9 student.
"Mumbai cannot afford to lose. We will get those who have hurt us," said Gokul Wankhede a medical representative.
"It is better to run a little late than never be able to run at all," said Sunil Gaytonde a painter.
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