Kochi: In the wake of a security scare involving a drunkard the other day, the Kochi Metro Special Police (KMSP) has now decided to subject suspicious commuters to breath-analyser tests at the metro station entry points. “The KMRL MD has asked the KMSP to tighten the frisking and ensure no one is entering the system in an inebriated condition. They are already equipped with breath-analyser devices. They’ll now subject suspicious persons to breath-analyser tests,” said a senior metro official.
So far the security personnel used to frisk the commuters only for concealed weapons. The passengers also have to pass through metal detectors. According to the Metro Railway (Operation and Maintenance) Act, 2002, not only is there a ban for drunken commuters, but one is also forbidden from carrying spirits and inflammable liquids in all forms, including sealed liquor bottles.
The authorities have made it clear that the accused Ali Akbar, who in an inebriated condition jumped onto metro rail tracks at Palarivattom metro station on Tuesday, would be tried under the Metro Act besides the usual ones lodged by the state police. “The KMRL will conduct an internal enquiry into the incident. Managing Director Mohammed Hanish has assigned Director Projects Thiruman Archunan to submit an inquiry report on December 26," the official said.
It was the first major offense committed inside the Metro premise ever since the operations started in April last. The case should have been dealt by the Kochi Metro Rail Police' However, despite the building getting completed at Cusat station near Kalamassery and the Government nod received for the same three months back, the Kochi Metro Police station is yet to start functioning. “We’re waiting for the government to finalise a date for inauguration,” the official said.
