Foolproof security cordon for PM’s visit, central agencies take over Gandhi Maidan

Alok Mishra

Patna: Keeping in mind serial bomb blasts at Patna Gandhi Maidan and Patna Junction during the visit of the then  prime ministerial  candidate and BJP leader Narendra Modi, different central agencies including SPG, have taken over Gandhi Maidan for a fool-proof security cordon as Modi is visiting the state capital on January 5 to participate in Pkashotasav.

Police sources revealed that all the security arrangements were being carried out as per the Blue Book. The pandal from where the PM would address the gathering is being made fireproof. Earlier, only the roof the Darbar Hall was fireproof, now the security personnel are taking steps to make the entire hall fireproof. All the synthetic walls  and plywood are also being made fireproof.

Sources revealed that fire resistant spray are being sprayed everywhere where PM would visit. Over half a dozen fire-fighting vehicles would be deployed behind Darbar Hall. CCTV cameras have been installed at Sabha Mandap and emergency gates have been made for the policemen and devotees visiting there. Each and every person would be frisked by security personnel and SPG men would remain with the cops.

Sources revealed policemen are keeping an eye on different lodges, hotels, hostels besides high-rise buildings around Gandhi Maidan. A list having the names of several persons have been prepared, who are living in hotels, hostels, lodges besides high rise buildings living close to Gandhi Maidan. Members of Special Teams have been deployed at high rise buildings. Dog squads and members of Bomb Squad have been pressed into action in and around Gandhi Maidan and different locations of the city.

Sources said that special arrangements have been made at PMCH and IGIMS for VVIPs and VIPs. The hospital authorities have been directed to make arrangements of blood of different groups in both the hospitals and life support ambulance would accompany PM’s cavalcade.