Just as 9/11 entered the dictionary of terror, so too will 26/11, the day which will go down as Mumbai's darkest hour, when terrorists laid siege to the city's roads, railway station, hospitals and two of its best known luxury hotels, leaving a trail of death and destruction and taking hostages. Here is a recap of India's deadliest terror attack -
The terror drama started shortly after 9 p.m., a time when the city was bustling, during which restaurants and hotels were at their most crowded.
The terrorists, who had split into teams on arrival in the city from the sea, had opened fire and lobbed grenades at different locations.
The terrorists entered from the Gateway of India and Nariman Point in fishing boats and launched the attack.
As confusion reigned, the terrorists hijacked police jeeps to create more mayhem.
An Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) team led by its head Hemant Karkare chased them to Cama
Hospital, where he, encounter specialist Vijay Salaskar and another colleague were killed.
In the meantime, the army was called in even as grenades were hurled and firing continued at the hotels.
By daybreak, even 11 hours after the attack started, the fire continued to rage at the Taj, with several firemen pressed to contain the spread.
Also, security personnel were able to rescue a few guests, hotel staff and others trapped in midst of the carnage.
Soon, the biggest anti-terror operation in Indian history was underway. Hardcore, highly trained, and motivated, is how Vice-Admiral J.S. Bedi, flag officer commanding-in-chief, Western Naval Command, described the terrorists.
The National Security Guard commandos were exchanging fire at the Nariman House. They came down a rope to reach the top of the building, another location in South Mumbai under siege by the militants.
The following days saw people of Mumbai came out in huge numbers to demonstrate in front of the Gateway of India against the growing security failures.
Local residents also held candle light vigils in memory of the people who were killed in the terror attacks.
How the boats ferrying the terrorists managed to evade the coastguard, navy and customs officials who patrol the harbour is a gross security failure and raises some serious questions.
A day which never should be forgotten and always teaches a lesson to all.
Regards
Shail |
