Authorities aim to enhance security measures, balancing passenger experience and evolving aviation industry needs, through expanded security coverage and advanced screening technologies
The Indian civil aviation industry is experiencing a significant growth trend, with a rapid increase in passenger traffic resulting in the expansion of airports, aircraft, and flight routes. The Niti Aayog has proposed a plan to increase airport capacity to handle up to one billion annual trips. This growth highlights the importance of prioritising security measures in the civil aviation sector, particularly in the context of evolving terrorism threats. It is crucial to ensure airport security meets international standards and to maintain a strict zero tolerance policy towards any vulnerabilities. In addition to this, the construction of a world-class airport in Noida, set to be operational by mid-2024, will further enhance India’s civil aviation landscape.
NOIDA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT PIONEERS ADVANCED SECURITY TECHNOLOGIES WITH NET-ZERO CARBON EMISSIONS
The Noida International Airport, slated to be India’s largest airport once completed, is taking major steps towards achieving net-zero carbon emissions during its construction and operational phases. The construction of this state-of-the-art airport is currently underway on a sprawling greenfield site, located 75 kilometres from Delhi, with a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.A groundbreaking technology being utilised is the Nanogence Catalyst, a patented smart activator that increases the binding efficiency of cementitious materials. This innovation allows for a direct reduction or replacement of up to 20 per cent of the required cement, resulting in a significant decrease in carbon emissions and enhanced cost efficiency. Given that cement is a significant contributor to the carbon footprint of infrastructure projects, this technology plays a crucial role in promoting sustainability. Christoph Schnellmann, the CEO of Noida International Airport, has expressed his excitement about the technology’s potential in helping to achieve the airport’s sustainability goals and aiming for net-zero emissions. The project has collaborated with experts in the field to incorporate sustainability elements into the airport’s design and infrastructure. Tata Projects, the engineering, procurement, and construction partner for the airport, has been conducting control trials of the Nanogence technology. The results have demonstrated improved resistance to weather and corrosion, increased longevity of concrete structures, reduced cement consumption, and a lower carbon footprint.
Abhishek Kumar, the CEO and founder of Nanogence, has emphasised the catalyst’s capability to optimise cement content while maintaining concrete strength and quality. This optimisation leads to substantial reductions in both carbon emissions and costs. The technology has the potential to decrease emissions by 30–60 percent compared to traditional concrete mixes.Nanogence provides an innovative solution to improve the binding strength of concrete, enabling the integration of eco-friendly materials such as fly ash and slag, which are usually discarded, thereby reducing the environmental impact. Tata Projects expects a decrease in operational costs due to reduced cement usage, as well as lower logistics and energy requirements, as a result of the Nanogence catalyst.The Noida International Airport is investing in state-of-the-art security systems to ensure a smooth and secure travel experience. These include high-resolution X-ray screening, explosives detection systems, and automatic tray return systems. This investment aligns with the Indian government’s commitment to cutting-edge airport infrastructure and prioritising passenger safety.
A LOOK AT THE STATE OF AIRPORT SECURITY IN INDIA
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States sets the standard for comprehensive aviation security and serves as the regulatory body for security policy, both domestically and internationally. It is responsible for law enforcement and Federal Air Marshal Services, maintaining an intelligence branch, utilising dog detection teams, and operating a robust research and development branch. A notable difference from the Indian model is that the TSA procures, owns, and maintains all primary screening equipment, highlighting its commitment to security.
WHY DOES INDIA NEED THE TSA MODEL?
Centralised Responsibility: Unlike in India, where airport operators share the responsibility for baggage screening, the TSA in the United States holds full accountability. This centralised approach ensures a uniform screening process, leading to a more secure aviation environment n Holistic Approach: The TSA’s jurisdiction goes beyond airport security, encompassing highways, railroads, mass transit systems, and pipelines. Adopting a similar comprehensive approach in India, given the intricate interplay of various transportation modes, could be beneficial. Emphasis on Research and Development: The TSA’s dedicated research and development branch focuses on continually improving security technologies and procedures. Emulating a research-driven approach in India can lead to the development of cutting-edge security solutions.
SECURITY MANPOWER AT AIRPORTS
The committee’s report identified a significant shortage of security personnel at Indian airports, with only 64 of the 118 operational airports receiving protection from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). The committee recommended that the central government urgently extend CISF security cover to all operational airports.Additionally, the committee pointed out a shortfall of 1,166 positions within the CISF, the primary security force at airports. They suggested that the full complement of CISF personnel be made available at airports nationwide. Moreover, the committee recommended the establishment of specialised institutions across the country to address the growing demand for security personnel in the aviation sector.Considering the ever-changing nature of threats, the committee underscored the need for regular surveys to evaluate the evolving threat landscape at all airports. Based on these assessments, the committee stressed the importance of promptly deploying trained security personnel at airports.
BOMB DETECTION AND DISPOSAL SQUAD
The committee’s evaluation revealed a worrying shortage of securitymeasures at 44 airports, where Bomb Detection and Disposal Squads (BDDS) were not available. Local police were being relied upon in these cases, but the committee raised concerns about their technical competence in handling bomb threats.To address this, the committee urged the immediate deployment of BDDS at all 44 airports that currently lack this critical resource. They also recommended that these BDDS units incorporate highly trained international pedigree dogs, renowned for their effectiveness in improving airport security.
UPGRADING SCREENING TECHNOLOGY
The committee pointed out the widespread use of outdated door frame metal detectors (DFMDs) and hand-held metal detectors (HHMDs) for passenger screenings at most Indian airports. Given that these systems are outdated and can infringe on passengers’ privacy, the committee recommended a complete technology overhaul.The committee also suggested the following: Accelerated Implementation of Full-Body Scanners: The committee recommended the swift installation of full-body scanners at airports, a cutting-edge security measure that significantly improves passenger screening.Adoption of Global Biometric Screening Standards: The committee advised implementing global best practices in biometric screening, such as employing facial recognition, fingerprint, and retinal scans at airports, to enhance security. Radiological Detection Equipment: The committee proposed the prompt installation and operationalisation of radiological detection equipment to streamline passenger frisking procedures, reducing wait times at security checkpoints.
SPECIFICATIONS FOR EQUIPMENT
Airport operators have an obligation to procure and provide security equipment meeting the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security specifications. To ensure compliance and proficiency in equipment usage and maintenance, the committee recommended proactive engagement between BCAS and airport operators. BCAS, operating under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, plays a pivotal role in safeguarding civil aviation operations against unlawful interference. This cooperation is essential to upholding security standards.
The committee emphasised the importance of soft skills training for security staff, such as CISF personnel, to enhance the passenger experience while maintaining security. They also recommended the quick implementation of the draft SOP for passengers with special needs developed by BCAS.The current airport security scenario in India includes robust measures such as strict screening procedures, advanced security technologies, and a visible security presence. However, the Standing Parliamentary Committee’s recommendations highlight areas for improvement, including enhancing security manpower, upgrading screening technology, and investing in specialised units like bomb detection and disposal squads. Modernising security equipment, such as full-body scanners .
