Terror alert: Security audit at all vital installations in Bihar

Security has been beefed up at the Barh thermal plant of National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC), Barani Oil Refinery and other important installations, religious and archaeological sites following a security alert in the wake of the Pathankot terror attack.

Security has been beefed up at the Barh thermal plant of National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC), Barani Oil Refinery and other important installations, religious and archaeological sites following a security alert in the wake of the Pathankot terror attack.

Bihar DGP PK Thakur said, the police headquarters has initiated security audit at all important installations. (PTI)

Though the security of the Barh plant, which has started production from its second unit also, is already with the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), fresh steps have been initiated to keep a constant vigil in and around the plant following the Pathankot incident, as terrorists could use explosives-laden vehicle or other means to carry out their operation.

This has happened following a letter from the police headquarters regarding the need for security audit. Bihar police have started the exercise of security audit at all important installations.

“Terror outfits such as Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammad, Indian Mujahideen and other such outfits have planned to target important installations of the country and they can use explosives-laden vehicles. This requires round-the-clock surveillance,” reads the letter addressed to all DMs and SPs.

Bihar DGP PK Thakur said, the police headquarters has initiated security audit at all important installations.

“In the changed situation, it is important to keep reassessing the security requirements and that is what has led to security audit so that appropriate steps could be taken timely in view of new threat perceptions,” he added.

He said in view of instances of theft of antique-value idols made of precious stones or metals, security audit of important temples would also be done and required security provided to prevent theft.

The Bihar State Religious Trust Board (BSRTB) had recently urged the government to deploy security personnel at temples having priceless ashtadhatu idols and precious ornaments.

A CISF official at NTPC, Barh, said the security at the plant was already good and it would be strengthened further as per requirement. “We have started installing high-vision CCTV cameras at all strategic points, as the plant is spread over 12 square km area and requires constant monitoring,” said an official.

The alert has specifically mentioned that at key installations, vigil should be maintained on outsiders entering the area both during day and night at various installations, including those of defence, religious, industrial as well as public utility.

Patna DIG Shalin told HT that from time to time, general alert is issued to all vital installations. “I have also asked the Barh SDPO to conduct a meeting with Barh officials for better coordination. If there is any requirement from the police side, that will be done,” he added.