Several measures to be undertaken to beef up security on Metro

New Delhi, Sep 17 (UNI) In an effort to beef up security on the Metro Rail Network in the aftermath of the September 13 blasts in the Capital city, it was today decided to undertake several measures including increasing the number of dog squads, strengthening the bomb disposal teams, increasing supply of bomb blankets and adding more door frame metal detectors (DFMDs).

At a meeting held today between Managing Director of the DMRC E Sreedharan and Director general of the CISF R K Das to review the security situation on the Delhi Metro, it was also decided to purchase more powerful search lights called dragon lights, procure more communication equipment (TETRA Radio sets), additional baggage scanners to scan luggage automatically and optimise the requirement of close circuit TV cameras for Phase-II.

During the meeting, attended by senior officers from DMRC, CISF and the Delhi Police, it was also informed that the DMRC had already ordered 6 new baggage scanners, which will be used primarily at stations such as New Delhi, Old Delhi, Chawri Bazar, Rajiv Chowk where more passengers come with luggage.

The DMRC has also started making preparations to build kennels to house the dogs which will be procured by the CISF for Metro Security.

Further, the DMRC will also launch a special drive to promote awareness among the commuters "as with 8 lakh passengers travelling on the Metro everyday, the DMRC has 16 lakh eyes and ears available to them who can look out for any unidentified object or suspicious person indulging in any dangerous activity," according to DMRC MD E Sreedharan.

The DMRC will also be distributing pamphlets and making films to spread awareness among commuters. In Phase-II, the DMRC will install 3,000 Close Circuit Televisions at the stations apart from cameras inside the trains.

The DMRC will also be removing flower pots and litter bins from the concourse area of the station and will also sensitise the shop owners who are operating inside Metro premises about the need to be more vigilant at all times.

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