India Today, India
Ramesh Vinayak
In a reflection of the heightened security concerns after the Mumbai terror attacks, the upcoming world-famous Surajkund Handicrafts Fair at Faridabad will have an unprecedented security blanket for the visitors.
Beginning from February 1, the 23rd edition of the fortnight-long fair is expected to be a big draw for the domestic and foreign tourists. The fair premises will be kept under constant surveillance with 80 CCTV cameras, eight bullet proof pickets and eight security towers equipped with telescope and hi-tech weapons, according to the Haryana police officials.
Apart from high-tech equipment, police officials in civil dress, dog squads, commandos, bullet-proof vehicles would also be deployed at the fair to provide security to the visitors.
The fair would be inaugurated by the President of India. Madhya Pradesh would be the theme state of this year. Egypt, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Thailand would also take part in this festival, according to the state Tourism Secretary Kashini Arora.
From the security point of view, festival area had been divided into seven separate sectors. Each sector would be governed by an officer to the level of Deputy Superintendent of Police.
A team of 1100 police officers and officials, which includes six officers of Indian Police Service, 15 officers to the level of DSP and 100 female police staff, had been deputed to ensure security in and around the mela area, said a senior police official.