KARACHI, July 12: Police have been put on high alert in Karachi in the backdrop of Mumbai train bombings. Police presence has been increased on Saddar streets and in adjoining towns as well as railway stations.

The city police chief, Niaz Ahmed Siddiqui, told Dawn that since Tuesday night police have been put on high security alert. Security around important public places and other vital installations has been beefed up, the city police chief said.

In addition, extra snap checking is being carried out by the police, the CCPO added.

“We have standby force; in case of any eventuality, the reserve force would be utilized”, he added.

To a query whether a reaction to Mumbai bombings is expected in Karachi, Mr Siddiqui said there had been no specific threat of attacks.

On Wednesday, policemen were seen carrying out search of passenger’s luggage at cantonment and city railway stations.

Similarly, snap checking was also carried out by police in different areas, especially in down-town.