Howrah, October 1 (Udaipur Kiran) : The National Security Guard (NSG) executed an anti-terror mock drill at Howrah Railway Station, Kolkata, on the night of September 28-29. This exercise involved the NSG’s 29 Special Composite Group collaborating with the Railway Protection Force (RPF), West Bengal Special Task Force (STF), West Bengal Police, and the state’s fire service.
During the drill, a simulated terrorist incident was created aboard the Vande Bharat Express. Commandos secured the station, boarded the train, and neutralized the ‘threat.’ This event marked the first drill of its kind at this significant railway hub.
Officials stated that the drill aimed to improve coordination among various agencies, test response strategies, and strengthen operational readiness to effectively handle emergencies, such as a terrorist attack, in the railway environment. It provided participating agencies an opportunity to practice responding to a simulated crisis, sharing information, and fulfilling assigned responsibilities.
An official explained, “In any situation related to the train or railway premises, the RPF and state police act first, but when the situation escalates beyond their control, the NSG is called in.” He emphasized the importance of coordination in such scenarios, noting that these exercises help formulate standard operating procedures (SOPs) for emergencies.
The NSG conducts drills at various locations, including hotels, malls, high-rise office buildings, factories, and metro stations, which aids personnel in understanding layouts that are crucial during a crisis. The drill at Howrah Station allowed NSG commandos to closely examine the station complex and the interiors of the newly introduced Vande Bharat trains, enhancing emergency planning and life-saving efforts.
In addition to dog squads, the NSG utilized bomb detection robots and other high-tech equipment during the drill. An official remarked that this exercise solidified the resolve of all involved agencies to respond swiftly and effectively to terrorism-related emergencies, thereby reinforcing the security of essential transport infrastructure.
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