The Hindu : Front Page : Security tightened for I-Day

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Saturday, Aug 15, 2009
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Security tightened for I-Day

Ananya Dutta

KOLKATA: Security in the city has been beefed up in view of Independence Day, even though no specific information about a threat to the city has reached the authorities, police officials said here on Friday.

“Extra 1,500 security personnel”

“The police will deploy an extra 1,500 security personnel on the day,” Jawed Shamin, the city’s Joint Commissioner of Police (Headquarters), said. “Seven quick response teams (QRT) will be put into place in addition to the six that are normally deployed.”

“We have not received any specific information about a threat to the city or at any particular place here, but the alertness level has been raised,” Mr. Shamin said. Security is normally increased on occasions like Independence Day and Republic Day, he added.

“Intense car checking”

“There will be intense car checking at all entry points for anti-socials and terrorist groups,” said Gautam Mohan Chakraborty, the city’s Commissioner of Police.

Mr. Chakraborty and Mr. Shamin surveyed the security in place in the city on Friday. Starting from Writers’ Building, they inspected the security measures at various important places including the metro network.

On August 15, there will be increased checking at the metro railway network and at all hotels, malls, cinema halls, cyber cafes, and public functions organised for Independence Day celebrations.

The city’s iconic structures such as the Victoria Memorial will also have increased police presence, as will places of worship. The police have intensified their vigil along the Hooghly River to prevent any possible attack from the sea.

Ambulances have also been placed at certain points and can be brought into use in case of an emergency.

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