Security tightened for R-Day in State

Security was tightened in important places across the State on Thursday as a precaution in view of the Republic Day celebrations on Friday. Additional forces were deployed in places such as airports, railway stations and bus stands, police sources claimed.

State Governor RL Bhatia and Chief Minister VS Achuthanandan are scheduled to participate in the Republic Day celebrations at the Central Stadium.

In Kochi, anti-sabotage equipment was deployed, combing of lodges and hotels was undertaken and random checking of baggage at the railway stations were carried out, sources in the Police Commissioner’s office said. About 600 police personnel were deployed to supplement security arrangements. Arrangements were also tightened at the Kochi international airport at Nedumbassery.

Armed commandoes were placed at vantage points on the airport premises and in the city, CISF sources said. No visitors were being allowed and parking of vehicles was being allowed at some distance from the terminal building, he said. Access control was imposed inside the terminal building.