KARACHI, Feb 23: In the wake of security threats and the Samjhota Express tragedy, the security of Thar Express from Karachi to Zero Point has been handed over the Sindh Rangers.

According to a press release issued here on Friday, in this regard a comprehensive security plan has been unveiled for the security and safety of passengers. As per the plan, only those passengers, who are in possession of legal travelling documents including passport, visa and railway ticket, will be allowed to board the train.

The security plan envisages preparation of detailed lists of passengers and their photographs will be taken in order to facilitate identification process. The passengers would be subjected to through body search with the help of scanners and other high-tech gadgets. Moreover, the snuff dogs will also thoroughly search the train before leaving the station. A video film of the passengers will also be prepared and all train bogies will be connected with telephone facilities.

The personnel of Sindh Rangers in plainclothes will accompany the passengers in train from Karachi to Zero Point and back. Rangers’ personnel will also be deployed at the railway stations of Karachi, Hyderabad and Mirpurkhas.

As per the security plan, railway police and district police in their jurisdictions on the train routes would also ensure the security arrangements at their end.

Besides, a comprehensive disaster management plan has been formulated to deal with any emergency situation. A control room has been established at the Sindh Rangers Headquarters, which would constantly remain in touch with the Thar Express during its journey between Karachi and Zero Point. A medical team of Rangers will also board the train for the convenience of passengers.

The Rangers have requested that the masses at large and passengers should extend all possible assistance to law enforcing agencies.