Date:11/09/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/09/11/stories/2006091107800100.htm

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Security to be tightened at reservoirs

Staff Correspondent

125 police personnel will guard Krishnaraja Sagar reservoir, watchtower to be built

Two entry gates at KRS dam closed for public

Metal detectors to be installed at Belur, Halebid, Shravanabelagola

TAKING NO CHANCES: A file photo of Krishnaraja Sagar reservoir near Mysore. — PHOTO: M.A. SRIRAM

HASSAN: In view of recent terrorist attacks in the country, it has been decided to tighten security in strategic areas in southern part of the State including Krishnaraja Sagar, Kabini, Harangi and Hemavathi reservoirs, Inspector General of Police (Southern Range), R.P. Sharma, has said.

Addressing presspersons here on Sunday, he said a detailed security plan for Krishnaraja Sagar reservoir, was ready. As many as 125 police personnel would be deployed to guard the reservoir round the clock.

Wire fencing had been recommended for the eastern side of the dam. Intercepting boats would be anchored on the western side.

A watchtower would be constructed to monitor movements of people. Both south and north gates had been closed for public and they were allowed entry from the bus stand side, he said.

The plan would be implemented in the next few days. Security would be further tightened at Hemavathi reservoir in Hassan district.

Three senior police officers, 18 head constables and 75 constables would be deployed in view of the threat perception, he said. Similarly, additional force would be deployed at Harangi and Kabini reservoirs, he said.

Security in and around important archaeological sites including Belur, Halebid and Shravanabelagola would be tightened by providing latest equipment such as metal detectors to the security personnel, he added.

Police stations

The Department of Home took serious note of the proposal sent by the southern range for the sanctioning of 11 police stations, and as of now sanctioned five police stations. To modernise the system, police stations were connected through "vast area network system" and district headquarters were connected through local area network. Authorities could get information though e-mail in case of necessity. Police patrolling parties had been equipped with walkie-talkies and wireless sets, Mr. Sharma said.