Porters to aid railway cops tackle terrorists

BAGGAGE LEAGUE: The Railways Police feel porters and vendors can provide vital information of terrorist activities.

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Patna: The Railway Protection Force (RPF) in Patna have initiated a training program for porters and vendors of the Indian Railway Stations who could be a great help in creating an information network to tackle terrorist activities.

RPF Commandant Maheshwar Prasad said," They (porters and vendors) spend their entire day in the railway station area interacting with people. They can help us to give information regarding any unusual activities in these areas."

The logic of seeking their services is that vendors and porters spend maximum time at railway stations. Hence it becomes easier for them to spot any suspicious movement and inform the cops

RPF Inspector S Siddiqui said, "We have told them that if they see any suspicious objects or persons who may be seen in the station frequently, they could be terrorists and that they report it to us."

The classroom training is just the beginning. Spying techniques are also being taught and they are upbeat about this added responsibility

A vendor, Dayanand said, "RPF commandants and inspectors have instructed us to keep a close eye on any suspicious persons as we go about our daily selling activities."

Another porter said that the terrorists leave things behind especially in cycles.

This innovative method of involving different section of the work force to tackle terror activities will certainly aid cops in foiling attempts to strike railway properties.