PANAJI: In the wake of the recent terror attacks in Sri Lanka, Panaji police held a meeting with the people and advised on security precautions for places of worship.
On Wednesday, the Old Goa police also conducted a security training session at the Basilica of Bom Jesus.
Speaking at the meet, Panaji PI Sudesh Naik advised people, especially members of religious committees, to install alarm systems and CCTV cameras with at least 30 days storage capacity.
“CCTV cameras should be installed at access points, sanctum sanctorum and other strategic points,” the PI informed.
The police also asked people to deploy adequate number of security guards hired from registered agencies, especially during night hours and asked people to verify the antecedents of all employees including security guards and provide the details of the same to the police.
Besides this, the cops also advised people to reduce access points with ideally, one access point which is easy to regulate.
"If possible, a metal detector should be installed and frisking of unknown, suspicious persons including a search of his luggage should be done," the detailed police issued advisory states.
The police also advised religious premises to collect cash from the donation box on a daily basis and to fix the said box on a concrete platform with proper locking system.
Religious bodies have been told to keep all gold and valuables in a bank locker and to use a heavy safe for ornaments retained on the premises.
"Keep places of worship and surrounding areas, including parking lots well-illuminated," the advisory states.
For lodging facilities in religious places, photo identity of all guests must be maintained and provided to the police, the advisory further adds.
Vehicles entering religious places must be checked for suspected persons and objects.
Sufficient numbers of traffic wardens with proper uniform with reflective jackets should be deployed to ensure no parking on roads and footpaths. Parking should be done away from the religious complexes and in parking lots only.
In order to maintain a proper queue system at religious places, a steel railing must be installed. Also, plans of religious places, showing entry and exit, should be provided to the nearest police station.
