Date:05/12/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/12/05/stories/2008120555250600.htm

Andhra Pradesh - Hyderabad

Security stepped up at Shamshabad airport

Staff Reporter

HYDERABAD: With intelligence agencies receiving inputs about possible terrorist attacks on the lines of September 11 US aerial attack at some places in the country, security has been beefed up at the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Shamshabad.

A hijack warning was issued for Delhi, Bangalore and Chennai airports after an email which said that terror groups might strike at these airports to hijack a plane.

All vehicles approaching the airport will be checked thoroughly on the main road connecting the National Highway-7 and later allowed into the airport entrance.

Passengers and visitors will be frisked along with their baggage. More than 400 surveillance cameras have also been installed to maintain constant vigil on vehicles approaching the airport and cargo office.

Additional armed policemen have been posted at the terminal, cargo office and VIP parking place.

Bomb disposal squad

Central Industrial Security Force, in coordination with the Cyberabad police, is overseeing security arrangements. A Quick Response Team of Cyberabad police have been kept in readiness and additional barricades erected on the main road connecting the airport.

A bomb disposal squad was pressed into service for a round-the-clock check of the airport vicinities.

“We are focusing on all aspects to tackle the situation. Meetings are also conducted with all associated departments on regular basis to review security system at the airport,” say police officials.