Orissa asks mining companies to tighten security

Orissa government today asked the mining companies in the state to tighten security around their areas in view of possible Maoist attacks.

"The state government issued advisories to the companies in order to ensure security in the mining area," state Home secretary A P Padhi told reporters after attending a meeting on mines security here.

The meeting, presided over by chief secretary T K Mishra, was attended by different companies including Central Public Sector Units (CPSU) like Nalco, RSP, MCL and state PSU's like OMC and private operators like Tisco and Rungta.

"They have been directed to enhance security around magazine houses and fortify them with immediate effect," Padhi said.

The companies were also cautioned about a possible Maoist attack on their explosive store rooms.

The state government also instructed companies to undertake transportation of explosives during day time with proper security cover. They were also asked not to keep extra quantity of explosives, he said.

While most of the CPSU mines were being provided with security by the CISF, the state PSU were engaging local police and private security personnel to guard the magazines.

"Orissa will soon have its own State Industrial Security Force (SISF) in the line of CISF," chief secretary Tarun Kanti Mishra said.

A draft Bill in this regard was almost ready to be presented before the cabinet.