New Delhi

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has now set up its Quick Action Team (QAT) with nearly 50 commandoes to deal with any terror situation in the national capital.

Similar teams have operated successfully in Jammu and Kashmir and Naxal-affected states.

The new QAT team has been specially set up to respond to terror situations or attacks on VIPs and installations under the protection of the Central Armed Police Force (CAPF), said an official.

These commandos are highly-trained and have experience in counter-terror operations in both Kashmir Valley and Left Wing Extremism (LWE) areas.

The official said that these Delhi QAT team members are awarded President's Police Medal for Gallantry (PPMG) for displaying exemplary bravery during anti-terror operations.

"The QAT commandos picked for its Delhi unit have worked in almost all theatres where CRPF is deployed and have the experience to deal with hardcore terrorists affiliated with Pakistan-based terror outfits like Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammad, Al-Qaida among others. They also have experienced in guerrilla warfare adopted by Maoists," said the official

The official said that the QAT team is also trained in operations in urban areas and has expertise in operating in crowded places and emergency situations in high-rise buildings.

The QAT team is said to be equipped with the latest weapons, equipment, radars, and other gadgets.

The Delhi QAT may either be requisitioned to assist the local police in the event of a terror or fidayeen attack or can move on its own to where there is an attack on an individual or installation being secured by the CRPF.

They are trained in all aspects of counter-terrorism including handling hostage situations and in case of explosions of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), said the official.

The Delhi QAT will be deployed for the first time at strategic locations during Republic Day celebrations, sources said.

CRPF's Kashmir QAT unit gives additional support to the security setup which mainly comprises the Indian Army, J&K police, and the CRPF. Similarly, QAT teams are used in operations against Naxals.