Security tightened at city railway stations

KOCHI: The RPF has deployed additional forces at the Ernakulam Junction and Ernakulam North railway stations on the eve of Babri Masjid Demolition Day to tackle any untoward incidents.  Around eight cops will keep vigil at the South station and four at the North station, said Prince, RPF CI (South).   The arrangements  will come into effect from Monday evening and  extend till Wednesday morning.Each additional staff will be on duty for 12 hours. Metal detectors have been placed at entry points.  Anti-sabotage checks, bomb disposal and dog squads will be there to ensure the safety at the railway stations.  Instead of two, four policemen will be deployed  to escort each train, according to Divisional Security Commissioner, RPF, K J Joy.Around 10 to 15 additional cops have already been deployed to intensify the security since the Sabarimala season set in, this in addition to the already active shadow police.  Crowd management, parking and other problems of the pilgrims have been taken care of. Since the Mumbai terror attack, security has been intensified at both the stations.A door-frame metal  detector at North station will be installed by Monday  evening. Frisking, anti-sabotage inspections and  other measures will be  taken, said Vinod, SI, Railway Police. Hand-held  metal detectors will also be used.