How safe are we in Kochi and Kerala?

By O.J.George

We have solemnly observed the first anniversary of Mumbai attack by terrorists from Pakistan.

But by way of abundant caution, much needs to be done to ensure safety and security to the people.

Kerala has vast coastline and the latest threat of easy entry for terrorists is from the sea.

Take for example, Kochi. David Coleman Headley and Tahawwur Hussain Rana, arrested by the FBI in US, had visited Kochi before the Mumbai attack.

There is reason to disbelieve that they had alternative site plans for attack in various places of the country, including Kochi.

And mind you, anyone can barge into Kochi which has easy access to the port from the ocean.

Cochin Shipyard is of strategic importance to the country, for it is where INS Viraat, the air-craft carrier, is under reconstruction at a cost of Rs 6,000 crore.

It is expected to be on active service within two years as per the pace of refittings and renovations going on.

If the work is immobilized through an attack, its induction could be delayed by a decade.

Also Cochin Shipyard may build more aircraft carriers for the Navy, which calls for strengthening the security set-up.

Cochin Refinery stands strategic for our oil needs and an attack on the infrastructure could erupt into unmanageable explosions. Only CISF protection is available as of now.

What about Cochin international airport? It has the security blanket of CISF and private security, but can they take on the most modern weaponry of terrorists?

Kerala High Court is situated flanking the backwaters and the port.

Terrorists could attack Parliament, Mumbai’s institutions and the like. So far they have not been able to strike at any court. Attacking the courts would destabilise judiciary which is the strongest pillar of the constitutional entities.

Terrorist elements have issued a warning, they can burn bus, cause explosion at the collectorate in Kochi, nothing is beyond them. Did we take notice?

Satellite surveillance, commando service, strengthening of intelligence set –up and all are essentials that cannot be dispensed with.

As for terrorists, they lie low for some time, they have strong sleeping cells capable of rejuvenating at the beck of their dreaded masters. Eternal vigilance is the only way to ensure safety.