Haryana Establishes Technical Committee to Formulate Aviation Safety SOP
In a significant move to enhance aviation safety and operational readiness, the Haryana civil aviation department has taken a proactive step by forming a high-level technical committee. This committee is tasked with developing a comprehensive standard operating procedure (SOP) for secure and safe flight operations at state aerodromes, ensuring strict adherence to Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) guidelines.
Committee Composition and Mandate
The newly constituted committee will operate under the leadership of the accountable manager of the civil aviation department in Haryana. It comprises seasoned aviation and planning professionals with extensive experience in the field. Beyond drafting the SOP, the committee will also assess the need for technical positions within the department to guarantee full regulatory compliance and operational efficiency.
Review Meeting Highlights
This initiative was unveiled during a virtual review meeting presided over by Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi. The meeting provided a platform for a thorough evaluation of the maintenance and development of runways and aerodromes across Haryana. Chief Secretary Rastogi emphasized that aerodrome upkeep is an ongoing process, noting that the department has already implemented several enhancement measures. These include periodic recarpeting of runways and regular inspections, which are now set to be bolstered through a structured SOP framework.
Directives for Coordinated Action
During the session, Chief Secretary Rastogi issued clear and comprehensive instructions to multiple departments to ensure systematic and time-bound maintenance of aerodromes in line with DGCA safety standards. The directives apply to all operational aerodromes in the state, such as those in Bhiwani, Narnaul, Pinjore, and Karnal, where improvement works are currently under active consideration.
- Public Works Department (B&R): Directed to prepare and submit rough cost estimates for all runway-related infrastructure works, including recarpeting, widening, construction of runway shoulders, markings, boundary walls, guard rooms, perimeter roads, and other safety facilities, strictly per DGCA requirements.
- Horticulture Branch: Tasked with ensuring regular clearance of vegetation within aerodrome premises and maintaining obstacle-free operational areas through periodic trimming and green maintenance, in close coordination with aerodrome officers-in-charge.
- Deputy Commissioners: Designated as nodal officers for inter-departmental coordination in Bhiwani, Narnaul, Pinjore, and Karnal. They are directed to facilitate prompt action on requirements from aerodrome authorities, coordinate among PWD, horticulture branch, forest department, and district administration, and monitor progress to adhere to timelines.
Prioritizing Aviation Safety
Reiterating that aviation safety, regulatory compliance, and infrastructure readiness are top priorities for Haryana, Chief Secretary Rastogi called for sustained coordination among all concerned departments. This collaborative effort aims to maintain high operational standards at the state's aerodromes and support safe, efficient flight operations, ultimately strengthening the aviation sector's resilience and reliability.
