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Chennai, Nov 11 (IANS) In the wake of the deadly car blast near the historic Red Fort in Delhi, the Union Home Ministry has directed all major cities across India to step up security measures. Acting swiftly on the directive, Tamil Nadu Police has increased surveillance and vehicle checking across the state, including at major public places in Chennai. Security has been put on the highest alert at the Chennai International Airport, where the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has increased screening and tightened access controls. Meenambakkam and airport police have intensified surveillance at all entry and exit points. Vehicles entering the airport premises are being thoroughly checked and are being allowed to proceed only after thorough investigation. The GST road leading to Meenambakkam has been brought under strict police surveillance and officials are maintaining round-the-clock vigil. According to airport officials, all the luggage of passengers is being carefully checked to prevent any untoward incident. “Passengers are requested to cooperate with the additional security measures to ensure smooth operations,” officials said. He said the airport is currently under the “highest level of security preparedness”. Under the instructions of Chennai City Police Commissioner Arun, additional patrolling teams have been deployed at major intersections and crowded public areas. Police presence has been strengthened in shopping malls, theatres, religious places and other high-footfall areas. Surveillance cameras and patrol vehicles are being used extensively to monitor public activities and detect suspicious activity. Temporary check posts have been set up at important junctions across the city. Police are conducting random vehicle checks and questioning suspicious persons. Once verified, they are allowed to proceed after detailed inspection. Meanwhile, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police (GRP) have beefed up security at major railway stations including Chennai Central and Egmore. As part of the coordinated security exercise, thorough checking of passengers’ luggage and station premises is being done. The extensive security arrangements have been changed following the Home Ministry’s nationwide advisory for maximum vigilance to prevent any further security threat following the Delhi blasts. –IANS AL/DPB