Port gets CISF guards 038; hi-tech security gadgets

In the wake of 26/11, Mumbai Port Trust is jacking up security.

In the wake of 26/11, Mumbai Port Trust MbPT is jacking up security. After raising the security to Level Three 8212; the maximum under the International Ship and Port Facilities Security ISPS Code of the International Maritime Organisation IMO 8212; MbPT is set to hand over port security to the Central Industrial Security Force CISF.

A container scanner is also being installed for the first time and the whole CCTV system is being revamped and CISF is likely to take over security within three months.

MbPT last week decided to install the container scanner, the first in the history of the 135-year-old port, at Wadi Bunder. The CCTV system would be upgraded and two speedboats procured for patrolling the harbour.

The CISF is set to take over the entire security of the port and a Quick Reaction Team of commandos will be created for port security.

The MbPT has approved an expenditure of Rs 18.63 crore per annum on 577 CISF personnel. At present, 573 port security personnel and 568 police personnel from the Yellow Gate, Sewree and Wadala police stations look after port security. The MbPT spends about Rs 12 crore on the police and Rs 12.6 crore on its own security personnel every year.

A senior port official said, 8220;After the CISF takes over, we won8217;t require the police for watch8230; our security personnel will be deployed in other departments and properties.8221;

The package worked out for the CISF includes bomb blankets, metal detectors, X-ray scanners, night-vision binoculars, VHF wireless sets, undercarriage vehicle inspection system, bulletproof jackets and explosive detectors. They would also be provided with accommodation, furnished offices and a strong-room to store arms and ammunition.

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8220;After the terror attack, we have already closed most of our gates for access control and stopped berthing of country craft and dhows at Hay Bunder. We are examining the crewlist of all craft and allowing them to dock at Princess Dock,8221; the official said. 8220;We are checking fishing trawlers and other boats at Sassoon Dock and Ferry Wharf.8221;

He said security level of the port had been raised to level three under the ISPS Code. The Code evolved after 9/11 has been in force since 2004. There are three levels in the code: level 1 for normal arrangements; level 2 for heightened security; and level 3 for exceptional security situations when maximum security measures have to be taken.