Security upgraded at all temples in AP: Minister

Hyderabad, Feb 14 (UNI) Andhra Pradesh Endowments Minister J Ratnakar Rao today said security has been increased at all big temples, including Tirumala and Annavaram, in the wake of the recent threat from terrorist organisations in the state.

Replying to a question raised by Congress MLC G Rudra Raju in the Council, he said scanners and explosive detectors had been installed in the temples to prevent any untoward incident.

The scanners would help monitor the temple surroundings round the clock and alert the security personnel, if any suspicious thing was found, he pointed out.

More than 100 additional security personnel were undergoing training. They would be deployed at important temples in the state later as part of security upgradation, he added.

Stating that the salaries of private security guards posted at temples were being paid by the Endowment Department, he said it was however, a financial burden on the department.

The government would take a decision on the payment of salaries from the state exchequer after consulting the finance department, he added.

UNI AP VA VV GT VC1706