Security ramped up at fuel refining assets

India has ramped up security and threat monitoring for Indian refineries and petroleum production facilities near the western border, people familiar with the matter said, citing preparations that include camouflaging exercises and activation of air defences.

- Rajeev Jayaswal and Prawesh Lama

NEW DELHI:

The heightened security covers installations that account for more than 38% of India's total 257 million tonnes of annual refining capacity, located in the border states of Gujarat, Punjab and Rajasthan.

"All security protocols are active, and both security agencies and refinery managements are prepared to thwart any attempt by hostile entities," said a senior official who asked not to be named. Key petroleum installations under enhanced protection include Reliance Industries Ltd's Jamnagar refineries, Nayara's Vadinar refinery in Gujarat, HPCL Mittal Ltd's Bathinda refinery in Punjab, and Vedanta Ltd's Barmer oil fields in Rajasthan. India has capabilities to detect, intercept and destroy incoming ballistic missiles, ranking among the few nations with such capacities. "All air defence assets have been put at their highest levels," said a second official, requesting anonymity.