Slockdown at Indian Airports: CISF Takes Charge
Security Forces Assigned to Supervise Cargo and Luggage Scanning at Airports due to Increased Alert Level
In response to the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam and escalating security concerns, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has extended the authority of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) to oversee cargo operations and the In-line Hold Baggage Screening System (ILHBSS) at all civil airports in India. This change is part of a temporary arrangement effective from May 9 to May 18, 2025 [2][3][4].
Taking Charge
CISF personnel have been tasked with supervising security processes within cargo terminals and the ILHBSS. This expanded responsibility allows them to perform random checks and manage access control at essential facilities [4]. This action aims to provide an extra layer of security checks, bolstering the overall aviation security [4].
Immediate Action
CISF has reacted swiftly and resumed control over cargo and baggage operations. Their oversight includes the security of airport operators for the ILHBSS [4]. The directives have authorized CISF personnel to conduct thorough checks and maintain tight control over these critical facilities.
Airport Shutdown
In another measure to enhance security, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and relevant aviation authorities have announced the temporary closure of 32 airports across Northern and Western India for all civil flight operations. Starting May 9, 2025, until May 14, 2025 (0529 IST on May 15, 2025), these airports will be off-limits for civil aviation activities [5]. Some of the affected airports include Chandigarh, Jaisalmer, Jammu, and Jodhpur, among others.
Extended Closure
The government has also extended the temporary closure of 25 segments of Air Traffic Service (ATS) routes within the Delhi and Mumbai Flight Information Regions (FIRs) due to operational reasons [5].
Enhanced Security Measures
- Airports have been directed to intensify security checks, and CISF has cancelled all leaves to maintain full operational capacity [1].
- The situation remains under close scrutiny, and adjustments may be made based on the shifting security landscape [1].
Impact
- Heightened Security: This move beefs up security arrangements at airports, offering an extra layer of defense against potential threats in these troubling times [2][4].
- Operational Readiness: CISF's prompt response highlights their preparedness to safeguard India's aviation infrastructure, fortifying trust in the security measures in place [4].
- Traveler Experience: While enhanced security could lead to more in-depth checks, it is designed to prioritize safety without causing significant inconvenience to travelers [5].
- In light of the escalating security concerns following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has been authorized to implement directives for security operations at airports, particularly focusing on cargo operations and the In-line Hold Baggage Screening System (ILHBSS), up until May 18, 2025 [2][3][4].
- As part of the enhanced security measures for airports, CISF personnel have been deployed to supervise security processes within cargo terminals and ILHBSS, allowing them to perform random checks and administer access control at essential facilities [4].
- Following the temporary closure of 32 airports across Northern and Western India, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and relevant aviation authorities have announced the extension of the closure for 25 segments of Air Traffic Service (ATS) routes within the Delhi and Mumbai Flight Information Regions (FIRs) due to operational reasons [5].
- In the aftermath of the latest terrorist attack, politics, general news, and war-and-conflicts continue to discuss the heightened security arrangements at airports, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a robust security system to protect against potential threats [1].
