In the aftermath of last week’s serial blasts in two of India’s leading cities, Bengaluru and Ahmedabad, the malls and shopping centres in the capital have been fortified with extensive security measures to combat potential threats and danger to shoppers and people in the vicinity of these malls.
At the same time, shoppers too seem to retain their faith in the malls’ security fabric as there have been no conspicuous fall in footfalls and mobility in the malls.
Talking to Indiaretailing, Rajan Bhagat, public relations officer, Delhi Police, said: “All officers of various zones have visited the shopping centres to ensure that all of them are using adequate equipments to detect suspicious objects. CCTVs at malls are being monitored by the police, and the security agencies have been briefed on measures that can help in strengthening the security. Also, at certain places, policemen are assisting the security agencies for security checks.”
Listing out the measures taken to strengthen the security in their mall, DNS Bisht, security head, Select Citywalk, said: “We are working in sync with the police and the district administration to tackle this insurgency. We are thoroughly checking each and every one entering the mall, and keeping a close watch on suspicious elements. Police is monitoring all close-circuit television cameras installed inside the mall. Sniffer dogs are also on the job.”
Speaking about the support provided by the police and the district administration, Bisht said: “The police have been working closely with us. They have not only provided us with additional safety equipments, but have also deputed their jawans inside the mall. This has really helped us to strengthen the security here.”
“It is our responsibility to take care of the people inside and around the mall,” said Bisht.
Deepti Goel, GM, marketing and media of Ambi Mall, Gurgaon, confirmed that more security agents have been hired and CCTVs are being closely monitored. Goel said that the security agency has been briefed by the police, and special announcements alerting everyone to be extra cautious are being done on regular intervals.
“There’s no drop in footfalls at the mall, and shoppers can feel fully secured,” assured Goel.
– Ranjan Kaplish and Satrajit Sen
