Date:02/12/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/12/02/stories/2008120258990300.htm

Tamil Nadu - Chennai

Security at Central station stepped up

Special Correspondent

CHENNAI: Security arrangements at the Chennai Central Railway Station have been increased in view of the recent terrorist attacks in Mumbai.

Additional strength of RPF and GRP personnel have been mobilised from other areas and deployed at the station. Besides, 50 Tamil Nadu Special Police personnel are also assisting the RPF and the GRP.

The staff deployed for duty at passenger area and in the trains have been sensitised about the grave danger and instructed to maintain constant vigil over the suspects and on unclaimed objects.

Besides, the following preventive measures have been taken in co-ordination with the GRP with immediate effect: entry and exit points have been minimised; door frame metal detectors have been installed at the entry points for frisking of passengers; passenger belongings are being randomly screened by X-Ray scanners; bomb detection squad unit at the Chennai Central has intensified anti-sabotage checks; dog squad has been pressed into service for frisking parcels and luggages; and security personnel at passenger area duty are asked to utilise hand-held metal detector for frisking of suspected and unclaimed baggages.

Frequent announcements are being made to caution the passengers not to touch unclaimed articles at the stations and the trains. Closed circuit television networks are being upgraded , according to a release.