Source: The Sangai Express
Lamka, March 11, 2010:
In a major security-related procurement for VVIPs of the State, the State Government has procured five all-terrain BMW-X5 bullet-proof cars for use by the Governor and the Chief Minister.
The German-made cars would be brought to Imphal within the current month or early part of the next month.
The same brand of specialised bullet-proof car is being used by the Prime Mi-nister.
It is reported that the Home Ministry paid for the BMW cars acknowledging the threat faced by VVIPs of the State.The State Government bought the car from the company through a dealer.
The cars reached New Delhi in the latter part of February.
The bullet-proof car made by the world famous German car manufacturer costs more than Rs 45 lakhs each.
Wind-shield and side-windows of the car are made of special safety glass of thickness 22 mm.
It is fitted with intercom gadgets, under-body explosive protection gear, camera etc.
Even if hit by bullet, the car can still drive for 50 kms without stopping.
At present, the five BMW bullet- proof cars are being kept at Manipur Bhavan, New Delhi.
Three cars would be brought to Imphal.
Two cars would be allotted to the Governor and the Chief Minister while one would be kept in reserve.
The remaining two would be kept in New Delhi for use by the State's Governor and the Chief Minister during their visit there.
The State Government would pay transportation charge for the three bullet-proof cars that would be brought to Imphal.