High alert sounded in temple towns

A HIGH alert has been sounded in the temple towns of Ayodhya and Varanasi ahead of Independence Day and following a US warning about possible terrorist attacks on India.

The Faizabad district administration has beefed up security in Ayodhya. Strict checking of incoming vehicles is being carried out. Armed policemen have been posted at important checkposts, including Bandha Tiraha crossing, on the national highway bypass, Vidyakund, Parikrama Road and Saket College on Faizabad Road.

According to official sources, the police were making no distinction between VIPs and ordinary citizens. Vehicles are being thoroughly checked before being allowed to enter into Ayodhya.

It may be recalled that five terrorists had gained entry up to the acquired land on July 5, 2005. All of them were gunned down by security forces before any serious damage could be done. However, two civilians lost their lives in a bomb attack on the iron fencing which was blown up by the terrorists. One of them managed to come within striking distance of the makeshift structure before being shot dead.

The police are maintaining strict vigil on Ayodhya and Faizabad railway stations. The Railway Protection Force has been entrusted with the task of maintaining security at railway stations. Metal detectors have been installed at the entrance to railway stations and important temples 

An RPF outpost was inaugurated at the Ayodhya railway station by a senior official.  The force was directed to maintain strict vigil round the clock, as railway stations could be an easy target for troublemakers.

Similiar security was maintained in Faizabad as well. Only three days ago, the ten- day-long Sawan Jhula Mela passed off peacefully in Ayodhya.
The police force has been directed by Varanasi senior superintendent of police Ashutosh Pandey to be vigilant and keep a close watch on suspected elements throughout the city.

Holding a meeting of cops in the Police Lines in Varanasi on Sunday afternoon, the SSP directed the cops to extensively patrol overcrowded and sensitive areas of the city to ensure smooth and peaceful celebrations on August 15.   Special instructions were issued by the SSP to the cops to intensify checking of two-wheelers and their  riders.

Two youths riding a motorcycle should be definitely checked. Besides, youths carrying, bat and pads in hands should be also checked in the wake of terrorist strikes.   During the meeting, the SSP also talked to the constable ranked cops and got acquainted with their departmental problems. The SSP sorted out the problems of several cops like encashment and sanction of casual and medical leave.  Prior to the meeting, Additional SP of Varanasi, N Jha, transferred to Kanpur as SP (Economic Offene Wing), was extended a warm farewell in a function.

Meanwhile, the Intelligence personnel have been activated throughout the city to gather information from  sensitive areas and to keep an eye on suspected persons and passengers.

Overcrowded places, sensitive points like Gyanwapi complex, bus stations, railway stations, airport and prominent parks and ghats are on top security priority of the administration.  The cops of Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police were checking suspected passengers and their luggage on platforms and trains here.