CISF to take over security of Safdarjung Airport

The Central Industrial Security Force is all set to take over the security of Safdarjung Airport. The paramilitary force is likely to deploy two of its companies to secure the airport premises.

“There will around 150 CISF jawans who will be deployed on the internal security duty pattern. The process to deploy the force at the airport premises is on the final stage, and it will take around 30-45 days to complete this process,” said a CISF official on condition of anonymity.

“The deployment of the force is on the internal security pattern and this could be a precursor for the force to take up the assignment full time considering the vulnerability of the security threat,” said the official.

Meanwhile, sources said that he security cover will be provided in view of potential threats to the facility used primarily for flying VVIP helicopter sorties. The airport is presently guarded by the Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB) drawn from Northeastern states and they largely look after access-control duties through official entry/exit gates.

The airport facility is currently operated by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and apart from conducting regular administrative operations, the airport also houses the hangar for the Mi-17 series of copters of the Border Security Force and is used to fly VVIPs using these or by the helicopters of the Indian Air Force.

Sources future said that security agencies have pointed to the vulnerability of the airport as it has an open road-facing runway and its vast periphery is dotted by thick vegetation and buildings.

Sources said that it is essential to keep the airport safe as the President, Prime Minister and other dignitaries board flights from here occasionally.