BANGALORE/HUBLI: Following reports of the Intelligence Bureau indicating possible terror attacks with the use of hijacked aircrafts, Bangalore International Airport (BIA) authorities on Sunday said they had “adequate” security in place to deter any attack.Intelligence reports suggested that there could be attempts by terrorist elements to board aircraft originating at smaller airports like Hubli, hijack them and use them for 9/11 style attacks in cities like Mumbai and Bangalore.The BIA had earlier advised passengers to check in early at the airport as there would be increased number of checks after the Mumbai blasts. Without divulging sensitive information about the security details, the BIA officials said they had taken all measures to avoid and deter any such attempts.The police said they had taken elaborate security measures, but added that these measures had been in place after the Mumbai blasts.Following the alert from the Central agency, a large number of police personnel have been deployed at the Hubli airport.Hubli Deputy Commissioner Darpan Jain, however, claimed that the alert was general in nature and not one specific to any particular region. But taking no chances, the Hubli-Dharwad police have strengthened vigil at the airport to ensure fool-proof security arrangements to thwart any untoward incidents.One deputy commissioner of police, two assistant commissioners and one platoon each of the Karnataka State Reserve Police (KSRP) and City Armed Police have been posted at the airport.These measures apart, an anti-sabotage team and a dog squad have also been pressed into service to keep a thorough check at the airport. Airport Controller M Basavaraj refused to divulge any information on security arrangements at the airport and the possible threat of hijacking planes from here.According to Hubli Dharwad Police Commissioner Ramachandra Rao, “There is a general security alert from the Centre and a rumour was also making rounds that a plane hijacked from a smaller airport can be used (in attacks),following which security was beefed up here.” DC Darpan Jain said security measures were in place as per the protocol which was enhanced following an alert. Claiming that there was only a general alert, he sought to downplay the threat perception. “Following the recent terror attack in the Delhi High Court, general security arrangements have been made at the airport,” he said.
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