Security lax at malls, multiplexes

15 Feb 2010-JAIPUR: The security scene at hotels, malls, multiplexes and eateries remains grim in Jaipur even after the blast in Pune which took nine lives and injured hundred others on Saturday.

The police said security arrangements have become important after inputs that terrorists are planning to strike at these places as they are frequented by tourists on a regular basis. In Pune attack, the terrorists had targeted a bakery which was milling with foreign tourists in the evening.
The administration of malls and multiplexes in the city claims to follow strict security measures as prescribed to them by the police. However, there are still many glaring negligence that one can spot.
At malls, including Raisar Plaza, Ganpati Plaza and others, there are hardly any security arrangements. Security guards have not been deployed and there are no equipment to frisk people.
"It is not feasible for us to check all the people who visit Raisar Plaza area every day. Close to 5,000 people visit the mall on a regular basis," said a representative of Raisar Plaza Vyapar Mandal. He added that the police should deploy cops to keep a tab on suspicious activities here.
However, management of multiplexes in the city claims to have all the security systems in place. "From entry into the mall to the ticket counter at the multiplex, people are frisked twice and they have to go through metal detectors. Their belongings are also checked before they enter the theater. CCTVs have also been installed at strategic places," said an official at Inox multiplex situated near 22 Godown Circle.
The tourists feel that security arrangements at eateries and restaurants in the city are not up to the mark.
"I went to a restaurant near Chomu Circle in C-Scheme area when someone told me that a lot of foreign tourists go there. I spotted many of them, but found no security arrangements in place," said Adrienne, a French tourist.