Railway security stepped in Allahabad following Maoist threat

ALLAHABAD - Vigilance has been stepped up at the railway station in Allahabad, days after suspected Maoist sabotage derailed the Gyaneshwari Express in West Bengal killing over 140 passengers.

The Government Railway Police (GRP) and the Railway Protection Force (RPF) have been alerted to screen passengers and luggage and armed guards are being deployed on trains plying on the routes.

Plainclothes police are also swarming while CCTV cameras monitor suspicious movements.

Police women have also been mobilised to frisk ladies, since Maoist women cadre have often been involved in logistics and material support in carrying out attacks.

“Security personnel from the Railway Protection Force have been told to keep a watch over any suspicious object or individual and secure the trains from all dangers. In case of any attack, they must hold fort and bring the train safely to the nearest railway station,” said Pradyumna Ojha, In-Charge, GRP, Allahabad.

Maoists have taken over trains in past years in a show of strength, holding them for hours.

The rebels, who often attack police, government buildings and infrastructure such as railway stations, have in recent months stepped up attacks in response to a government security offensive to clear them out of their jungle bases. (ANI)