Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), which is in charge of the airport’s security, is looking at technologies like CT baggage screening, artificial intelligence-driven gadgets and even a biometric-based entry system.
The need to introduce these technologies was discussed recently at a Global Aviation Security Symposium (AVSEC 2018) in Canada and officials say they are checking a number of aviation gadgets, which are already being successfully used abroad.
One of the technologies is computerised tomography (CT)-based screening for cabin baggage — a technology that was recently tested at London’s Heathrow Airport. In addition to generating a comprehensive image that can be rotated to check each individual item inside a luggage, the technology can also improve efficiency with passengers not requiring to take out liquid items for manual checking. A CISF official said its images are also clearer than those generated by an X-ray scanner, allowing security personnel to spend less time on a bag.
ADVERTISEMENT
“We are looking at a number of technologies, some of which can be adopted this year. The first stage is to carry out testing and once we do that, we will send reports to Bureau of Civil Aviation Security and the civil aviation ministry. We have been keeping them updated and these new features have been in the works for some time,” said Hemendra Singh, assistant inspector general, CISF.
CISF also plans to utilise automated tray return systems (ATRS) across airports in the country, similar to what is being used abroad, to reduce the time personnel spend in manually collecting trays during the security check. In this case, the tray will automatically return to the starting point, increasing passenger thoroughfare substantially, CISF says.
The symposium, organised by International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), also looked at artificial intelligence, with CISF planning to test new gadgets that can reduce human intervention. Among those options are robotic dogs. “While dog squads will continue to be a part of our security, robot dogs are also an option,” said a CISF official.
Last year, CISF tested a biometric-based entry system at both Bengaluru and Hyderabad airports and its successful implementation is likely to reduce problems of fake ticket entry. “The barcode system on the ticket will provide information immediately and allow entry to people only with a valid ticket. In cases of fake tickets, the system will reject it immediately,” said Singh.
ADVERTISEMENT
CISF had last year incorporated body-worn cameras as part of its security at IGI Airport after testing it out at both Delhi Metro and the airport. The camera is worn with the uniform and generally attached around the torso, letting CISF personnel use the footage in cases of an argument due to suspicious passenger movement.
