Watchtower plan

TT, Siliguri, Jan. 13: The Siliguri metropolitan police will soon get eight watchtowers across the town that would help them enhance vigilance.

The proposed towers would be constructed by the north Bengal development department, sources said.

"Tenders have been floated for construction of the watchtowers. A sum of Rs 22.6# lakh has been allotted for the project," an official said.

Sources said five watchtowers would come up at Bihar More (in Bagdogra), Shivmandir (near North Bengal University), Khaprail More (in Matigara), Darjeeling More (the main entry point to Siliguri) and Second Mile Check Post (on the northern end), all along NH31. The remaining three will be set up at Nouka Ghat (on the southeastern side of the town), Bhabesh More (on Eastern Bypass) and Airview More (in the heart of Siliguri).

Indra Chakraborty, the deputy commissioner (headquarters) of Siliguri metropolitan police, said: "Such infrastructure can help us curb incidents of traffic violation and crimes. The towers would help us keep a watch on all entry and exit points of the town."

Another police officer said: "Traffic congestion can be avoided during political programmes like rallies and public meetings as there would be close coordination among our men posted on the watchtowers."