3 reasons to step up security

1 Threat from the sea: The Mumbai Police Sunday got five new speedboats (left) to patrol the sea,the need felt strongly since the 26/11 attackers arrived by the sea route. The five boats are among 29 bought by the state at Rs 150 crore. Bulletproof,equipped with a radar,GPS and a marine communication device,they can reach up to 48 nautical miles per hour. Home Minister R R Patil said: “After 26/11,the need for a secure coastal line has increased. The Centre has provided us 28 boats; an additional 29 boats have been procured by the state.”

2 Ayodhya verdict: Chief Minister Ashok Chavan today appealed to people and political parties to ensure peace and public safety when the Ayodhya case verdict is announced n September 24. Home department officials said the said has asked for additional Central forces. The Chief Minister reviewed the security measures necessary at a meeting Sunday. “We are taking all measures. Tension should not be created in the state. We will also appeal to political parties to maintain peace,” Chavan said. Home department officials said the government will try and get in touch with political leaders at local level.

3 Delhi attack: Security in the city,already tight for the Ganesh festival and Mount Mary Fair,has been beefed further following the firing in Delhi. Since foreign tourists were targeted,areas popular among them are high among police priorities. Mobile patrols have been increased,with the control room having relayed special instructions to all police stations on additional measures. The police urged citizens not to panic and to report anything suspicious.