Terror Threat Through Air Strikes

Following intelligence inputs that terrorists might carry out airborne strikes, air traffic control officials have been asked to keep a hawk's eye on unidentified flying objects. They have been asked to be extra vigilant and be prepared against terror threats from the air. The intelligence reports had also mentioned that terrorists planning suicide attacks could use unused airstrips as base by using small aircraft. With India's coastal security already breached by terrorists in Mumbai, Defence Minister A K Antony warned the armed forces of possible terror attacks from airborne platforms similar to the 9/11 attacks in the US. Antony asked them to be prepared to counter the threat of terrorists from the air and prevent a repeat of World Trade Centre-type of attacks carried out by the Al-Qaida. The Delhi Police have deployed more armed personnel outside the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) after intelligence agencies warned that it could be a target. Apart from augmenting their strength, the police have been given sophisticated weapons and hand-held metal detectors. Plain-clothes policemen have also been deployed and roadblocks are put up on the approach roads. There are also inputs on a fidayeen attack on major airports of the country. Airports across the country have been put on high alert in the wake of intelligence reports that terrorists from Pakistan or Afghanistan may strike using a hijacked aircraft. Extra surveillance has been mounted in most of the airports, with additional CISF and police personnel being deployed to keep an eye around the terminal so that any incident can be prevented.