With non-functioning equipment and inadequate deployment of personnel, the security scenario at the Chandigarh railway station leaves much to be desired. This, despite tall claims by the Government Railway Police (GRP) and Railway Protection Force (RPF) of having strengthened security at the railway station.

The only scanning machine and the GRP bunker at the entrance gate hardly prove to be of any deterrence. The assistance and help booth on the Panchkula side gate also has no real help on offer, as it is often unmanned.

The metal detecting machine at the main entrance is hardly monitored (except on Republic Day and Independence Day security demonstrations or when a VIP visits).

The GRP bunker near the parking area — set up after the Mumbai attack last year — is more suited for a big attack rather than stopping a person sneaking into the station in the garb of a passenger.

The situation is worse at the gate on the Panchkula side. Officially, there is deployment of one GRP constable for traffic check, two head constables or constables for law and order check, and one RPF constable and two home guard constables. Even after thorough scrutiny, it is hard to spot these officials near the area.

Also, except the GRP helpline toll free number displayed, no manual assistance is seen at the recently installed assistance booth near the parking area.

The area even lacks a basic, proper lighting system.

There is a functioning CCTV camera network at the station though, but it is of little help in the absence of adequate personnel or primary checks.

... contd.