CISF to handle Vijayawada airport security

Vijayawada: The Central Industrial Security Force is likely to take over the security details of the airports in Vijayawada, Rajahmundry and Tirupati soon.

Authorities of these airports have asked the Centre for improvement in security measures at the airports in view of increased passenger traffic and terror threats. So far, these airports were provided security by the AP State Special Police, which works under the supervision of local police districts.

It is expected that the Centre will give top priority to Vijayawada airport since will serve the state capital needs and the Chief Minister is keen on developing it due to the dramatic increase in air and passenger traffic.

At present over 70 police personnel provide security at main gate, parking, terminal building, airside and around the periphery of the airport and other spots.

Airport director M. Raja Kishore said that the proposals for CISF security have been sent and approval is awaited.

He said that the first priority would be given to Vijayawada in approving the proposal and then Tirupati and Rajahmundry airports.

Over 150 CISF personnel of all cadres are required for serving the airport’s security needs and the same number of personnel is expected from the airport authorities.