CISF gets extra teeth to prevent terror attacks at airport, Metro stations

NEW DELHI: Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) is all set to get a shot in the arm for enhanced security at IGI airport and Delhi Metro with the help of sophisticated portable gadgets that will help them detect contraband and explosive devices. Moreover, the personnel will also get body-worn cameras to allow them to take pictures of the security check.

Apart from the gadgets, special tubular shooting ranges have been acquired to help CISF personnel train in the usage of small arms ranging from pistols and MP-5s to assault weapons like AK-47s and carbines.

CISF officials said the technology will be implemented shortly at both the airport and Delhi Metro. The body-worn cameras will be used on a trial basis to capture both images as well as audio to get footage of anyone being frisked or checked. The equipment will also be used during VIP security, especially at public gatherings.


The handheld explosives and contraband detection devices can perform a dual role. They will not only be able to detect IEDs when coming in contact with a bag or passenger, but will automatically sound an alarm and display the explosives and contraband on the LED display to show their location.

“Any trace or particles of an explosive device or drugs can be detected by this device just by touching the bag or the body of a passenger,“ said a senior CISF official. CISF DG, O P Singh, said, “These sophisticated gadgets will help add cutting edge to the technology at hand and help in providing better security . They will be put into effect very soon. In addition, two tubular shooting ranges have been acquired to help provide training to CISF personnel for VIP security and for high-security places like the airport.“

The security force is observing 2017 as `Year of Training'.

Officials said tubular shooting ranges will help improve operation efficiency and preparedness of the force. “A variety of guns can be used at the ranges to shoot at moving as well as static targets. The distance can vary from 10 metres to 300 metres,“ said the official.

The equipment procured for Delhi airport, Metro and VIP security will soon be put in place at other installations and airports across the country in a phased manner, officials said.