Not all operations follow the same template, and would differ in case there are only a few minutes left for the bomb to go off. Then, "One of us goes to the bomb, puts on a helmet, covers the bomb with the blanket, and defuses it by disconnecting the timer device."
Murthy adds that it is a very tedious job as there is absolutely no chance of taking things easy. "The job is not only risky but involves guts and we need to be precise. One has to treat it as a passion and only if you learn and enjoy your work will you be able to deliver the goods." In their ability to deliver depends the public’s safety.
Murthy says apart from attending to bomb threats during terror strikes, they have things to do at other times too. One job is to check the venues before VIP visits, during festivals, cricket matches and other events which involve huge crowds. "Prior to the start of the event, we have to screen the entire area and check for suspicious objects. There is a lot of responsibility on us and moreover, we know that the safety of thousands of people depends on how we undertake our job. This only adds to the pressure," Murthy says.
There are a few basic tips that the public needs to follow, he emphasises.
One, inform the police when you find an unusual object. Make sure you do not touch it. Two, while at a cinema hall, train, bus or in an aircraft, always check around including under the seat before you sit down and inform the crew if you find a suspicious object
Three, look out for vehicles that are parked and remain unclaimed. Inform the police about the same.
Karnataka Inspector General of Police R P Sharma told rediff.com that the standard operating procedure for the bomb squad is to react every time they get information about a bomb. He says every headquarters in the state has a bomb disposal unit that works in tandem with the police force and has specific duties to perform.
Image: The bomb detection squad in action.
Also see: 'I don't know what terrorism means'
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