Third phase of rail security pilot to begin next week

The Transportation Security Administration next week will begin the third phase of an experimental rail-security program.

Passengers traveling on Connecticut's Shoreline East commuter train may pass through a specialized railcar equipped with on-board screening technology.

The purpose of the third phase is to test existing technologies to screen passengers and baggage for explosives while the train car is in motion.

Tests of the technology "have been successful thus far, and screening passengers for explosives while on a moving train will allow us to learn even more about the tools we have at our disposal to enhance rail security," said Asa Hutchinson, the Homeland Security Department undersecretary for border and transportation security.

The agency also plans to deploy a device to check passenger tickets for traces of explosives, and TSA screeners will conduct X-ray examinations of carry-on bags.