Jamshedpur, Feb. 18: The police department is procuring hi-tech night vision binoculars to monitor the movement of extremists in the dark.

Police sources said the decision to procure the binoculars was taken following a high-level meeting in the capital recently.

The meeting was presided over by additional director general (modernisation) Neyaz Ahmed. It has plans to procure 50 such binoculars from a Japan-based company.

Officials added that the binoculars would be used for night patrol and spot movement of extremists who usually travel under the cover of darkness.

When contacted Ahmed told The Telegraph from Ranchi, “We have been planning to procure the hi-tech binoculars in the face of growing terrorism activities, such as the mass carnage at Saranda and Palamau. We have floated tenders for the purchase of binoculars, which would be available to police personnel manning the extremist-infested areas.” According to Ahmed, the binoculars would provide a clear vision during night. We had experimented with one such binocular, which provided a clear vision up to five kilometres. Once the binoculars are procured it will certainly help boost vigilance,” he said.

Ranchi police sources added that at present only the Border Security Force (BSF) and army personnel are equipped with the binoculars to keep a track on infiltrators in borders.

“Barring a few south Indian states including Andhra Pradesh, no other state has such a facility for vigilance purposes,” added Ahmed.

Tourism push: Chief minister Babulal Marandi has instructed the tourism department officials to construct cafeterias in the forests of Dalma and Saranda in Singhbhum and Betla in Palamau, reports our Ranchi correspondent.