The Indian railways is yet to complete the process of installation of integrated security system at more than hundred 'sensitive' stations despite trains becoming soft targets for attacks from militants, the latest being in Chennai.
There are 202 stations identified as sensitive ones which are to be equipped with integrated security system at an estimated cost Rs 355 crores, however, the system is yet to be operational at 102 such stations. Integrated security system comprising bomb detection and disposal system, baggage screening, door frame metal detectors, hand held metal detectors for frisking and CCTV for electronic surveillance at stations.
A senior railway official said the process for installing integrated security system is on in many stations and zonal railways have been instructed to expedite it. Currently, RPF escort about 1270 trains while GRP is being given the responsibility of about 2200 trains in the country. Though many trains are being escorted by RPF and GRP, the ill-fated Bangalore-Guwahati train is not included in the escorted train list. "There are about 11,000 trains and all are not escorted. Escort is only given to certain trains which are passing through areas prone to Naxal or militant violence," said the official.