Centre urged to initiate security for Kosi Barrage

Patna, Apr 19 (UNI) Following sudden abandoning of Kosi Barrage by the Nepali security personnel, the Suraksha Seema Bal (SSB) has sent an SOS to the Centre to immediately intervene for ensuring security of the barrage on Indo-Nepal international border.

Inspector General of SSB Mukesh Sahay expressed concern over the security threat due to abandoning of security personnel deployed on the other side of the border of the barrage and told UNI here today that the centre had been requested to immediately intervene and initiate steps to ensure its safety and security.

He said SSB was taking full security care of the portion of the barrage located in Bhimnagar and Kataya of Bihar, however, the portions on Nepal side was unmanned as the security personnel suddenly disappeared from their place of deployment.

Possibility of any incident specially of Maoists attack cannot be ruled out, said Mr Sahay adding the entire barrage might come under threat if something happens to it on the other side of the border in Nepal. He, however, maintained the SSB was maintaining a 24-hour vigil on the barrage on the Indian side to foil any attempt of Maoists as the entire Kosi barrage was spread in the area of influence of extremists.

Meanwhile, state government has sounded an alert and asked administration in the region to maintain vigil following the reports of alleged threats by the Nepalese maoists.

State Home Secretary H C Sirohi said the government was in constant touch with the SSB for the security of the barrage.

UNI RS BA DKS DS1423