Chandigarh, June 30: With the new expanded visitors’ gallery at the Attari joint check post (JCP) on the India-Pakistan border near Amritsar nearing completion, the Border Security Force (BSF) is revamping its security plan and emergency protocols to cater to the hefty increase in the number of spectators.
A senior BSF official said security arrangements had been reviewed. He added that the entire structure and surrounding areas had been divided into several security sectors for better management.
“Besides, a well-rehearsed and well-equipped quick reaction team, suitably placed observers and sharpshooters have now been made an integral part of the security set-up,” the officer said.
“Evacuation procedures and other contingency plans have also been revised and modified in tune with the new requirements,” he added.
The foot-stomping retreat ceremony at the Attari-Wagah border attracts thousands of spectators every day, whipping up patriotic fervour on both sides. Earlier, the complex at Attari could accommodate only about 2,000 persons, but the new complex has a capacity of about 25,000 persons.
With the increase in the number of visitors, the BSF is also increasing the number of women personnel at the border.
The BSF has 4,179 women personnel, forming about 1.66 per cent of the force. Many of them are deployed on border guarding duties and were made part of the retreat drill at Attari in 2009. Unlike their counterparts, who also have a security role while managing spectators, BSF women personnel have a security as well as ceremonial role at Attari.
The new U-shaped gallery, built in phases at a cost of about Rs 32 crore amid a landscaped area, is expected to be formally inaugurated in August. It includes a conference with the latest equipment, lounges, dining space, suites, medical room, public conveniences, parking areas and a control room, along with a sound system, for proper acoustics and a network of CCTV cameras.
Source Tribune India
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