Heightened security in Mumbai for VIP visits

Mumbai, already reeling under a security blanket, has been further tightened in the wake of President A P J Abdul Kalam and Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi's visits that come against the backdrop of Tuesday's serial train blasts that killed 182 people.

In view of the threat perception to the dignitaries, the police are leaving no stone unturned to ensure that the visits pass off peacefully.

The President is slated to attend three functions on Tuesday, while Modi will attend a public meeting at Shanmukhananda Hall in Matunga on Monday.

Security at the city's entry and exit points, railway stations, bus-stops and public places has been increased further, the police said.

Joint Police Commissioner (Law and order) Arup Patnaik told reporters that additional para-military forces have been
deployed at specific vantage points in view of the VIP visits.

Meanwhile, the police continued their routine search operation of lodges, hotels and public places in Chembur, Mankhurd and Govandi, all in the city's central suburbs, sources said. At least 25 people have been detained for questioning.