Security beefed up in Kutch to check infiltration

Bhuj, Dec 28 (UNI) The International border in Kutch district of Gujarat, bordering Pakistan, has been put on high alert following reports of rise in infiltration from across the border in the wake of the assassination of former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, whose funeral was held at Larkhana in Sindh, bordering Kutch.

Larkhana is approximately 250 km from the Kutch border.

According to Bhuj Additional Collector Harshad Mehta, the Kutch coast, which comprises one-third of the Gujarat coast from Koteshwar to Surajbari, has become ''very sensitive'' and the paramilitary forces have been asked to keep a strict vigil.

The BSF has also intensified patrolling at the border outposts along the coastline.

Two points at the border - Khavada, 70 km from Bhuj and Khadir, 170 km from Bhuj-- are important areas for infiltration.

The assassination of Bhutto has plunged Pakistan in disarray.

People living in bordering areas and even terrorists may try to sneak into the Indian side, Mr Mehta added.

UNI