The elite counter-terrorism unit National Security Guard (NSG) will conduct a study of the Jagannath Temple in Puri on March 18 as part of its security inspection in the pilgrim town.
An NSG team comprising officers and personnel would conduct a mock drill along with Odisha police officers at the shrine, which, according to the Central intelligence agencies, is on the radar of terrorist outfits.
The NSG reconnaissance team has urged the Odisha police to brief about the security system around the temple. The team has also requested the State police to provide necessary assistance including accommodation and transportation.
The State police have also been asked to give a liaison officer for better coordination with the reconnaissance commander.Sources said IG (Operations) Amitabh Thakur has been appointed as the nodal officer to assist and coordinate with the NSG
It is the first reconnaissance plan of the NSG at Puri after the demolition of structures around the Jagannath Temple for the heritage and security corridor project.