Ahead of Independence Day, security loopholes in rly stations being plugged

New Delhi: For the Railway unit of Delhi Police, a major grey area as a security point of view is unauthorised entries inside the railway premises through railway tracks.

The police have identified five such stations where security flaws have been found, and security in these places has been heightened ahead of Independence Day.

Law enforcement officials has also written to the Railway Protection Force (RPF) for the proper coordination of security arrangements, so as to protect the lifeline which connects the entire nation.

According to senior officials, the joint team of over 40 policemen, comprising city police and RPF, is currently guarding railway tracks which can give easy access to anti-social elements who can enter stations by simply walking.

"We are making sure that no suspicious elements roam around the tracks and also checking the identity cards of the persons involved in maintaining and cleaning tracks," said a senior police officer, adding that action will be taken against each person trying to enter railway stations illegally.

Police claimed that in five railway stations, they have found people entering the premises through tracks and going unnoticed. Due to security reasons, the names of the stations have not been revealed.

This revelation was made after the city police conducted a security audit. The letter claimed that there are a few unattended points where security should be increased.

Additionally, outside force was also deployed at certain points to monitor the situation. More than five quick response team (QRT) vehicles are patrolling the railway jurisdiction.

One of the major points which was briefed to the police personnel by their senior officers was to keep tab on trains.

Recently, militant was arrested and eight grenades recovered from him in Jammu. With his arrest, a major chance of disturbance to Independence Day celebrations in Delhi and parts of Jammu was foiled. "We have told all personnel to be alert," said the officer.

Joint Commissioner of Police (Transport) Atul Katiyar himself is visiting railway stations to monitor security arrangements.

Cops also found broken walls in some railway stations, which could give easy access to criminals.

Moreover, in the parking areas of railway stations, vehicles standing for more than 24 hours could face problems if proper details are not given to parking attendants.

"The vehicle's owner should provide proper details so that we can contact him. If details are insufficient and the attendant remains clueless about the motorcycle or car, then action will be taken," added an officer.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Railway) Dinesh Kumar Gupta stated they have written to RPF and also held meetings with them to discuss security arrangements. "We have also held meetings with persons enrolled in the 'eyes and ears' scheme, where they were told to report any suspicious activities," said the DCP.