(a) whether more than 60 per cent of ammunitions from Ordnance factories are stored in the open;
(b) if so, whether the Army inventories are incapable of handling and storing ammunitions in a safe place;
(c) whether the Government propose to declare high alert in the ordnance factories to avoid any mishaps; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF DEFENCE (SHRI GEORGE FERNANDES)
(a) to (d): A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.
STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (d) OF LOK SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 169 FOR 29.11.2001
Ordnance Factories normally do not store ammunitions as these are issued to the indentors immediately on acceptance. However, when required, the ammunitions in the Ordnance Factories are stored in the specified buildings of the Factory which have been approved by the Centre for Environment & Explosive Safety (CEES).
2. The ammunitions for the Army are normally stored in Ammunition Depots. Presently, about 75% of the ammunition is held under covered accommodation and balance 25% of the ammunition is stored in the open protected by tarpaulin/temporary structure. Adequate funds have been provided and works for the construction of Explosive Store-Houses have been initiated and are under progress. It is envisaged that by the year 2003-2004, all ammunition presently stored in the open will be accommodated in the Explosive Store-House.
3. The Army is competent to handle and store ammunitions in adequate safety. Norms for the Store House specification, safety distances and requirement of fire precautions laid down by the Centre for Environment and Explosive Safety are being followed while storing the ammunition in the Store Houses.
4. The security in Ordnance Factories and Depots is with the Defence Security Corps and the Security Officers are from the Army. A system of constant interaction with the Intelligence Agencies exists for taking additional precautionary measures.