Kalpakkam still on high alert

Chennai, Aug 16 (UNI) The 'undeclared curfew' in the prestigious atomic power installation at Kalpakkam near here continued for the third day today as the authorities 'did not want to take chances.' Official sources told UNI the 'curfew' would continue to be in force from 1800 hrs to 0600 hrs within 200 m radius of the nuclear establishments, that included two units of MAPS, the IGCAR and the under-construction Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor.

The heightened security measures, put in force on the eve of Independence Day in the wake of intelligence reports warning of terror attacks, would continue for the next three to four days.

'Though Independence Day passed off peacefully, we don't want to take chances till the threat perspective recedes,' the sources said.

A multi-layered security blanket had been thrown by the Army, elite NSG commandos, CISF personnel, Navy, Coast Guard and Tamil Nadu special police. Villagers could not enter the 200 m zone and fishermen could not venture into the sea as the ban on fishing continued.

A big Coast Guard vessel with a helicopter on board and a naval ship continued to be stationed on the seas abutting Kalpakkam.

Dornier aircraft were making routine sorties. Coast Guard sources told UNI their vessel would stay at least till August 19. There were no untoward incidents so far, the sources added.

Army and NSG were in charge of security on the mainland. Vehicle checks were continuing and intensive patrolling was on in the whole area. People entering the complex had to undergo thorough checks.

UNI GV AA PA KN1646