In the wake of a devastating explosion in the national capital, security protocols have been significantly intensified at airports across India. The immediate trigger for this nationwide alert was a powerful car blast that occurred near the historic Red Fort in Delhi on Monday.
Enhanced Security Measures at Airports
The Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), which operates the Indira Gandhi International Airport, issued a passenger advisory on Tuesday. The statement confirmed that security measures have been strengthened, leading to a more thorough screening process for all travelers. DIAL explicitly warned that these enhanced checks are likely to take longer than usual.
"Due to the prevailing security situation in Delhi, security measures at Delhi Airport have been strengthened and the security screening process may take longer than usual," a DIAL spokesperson stated. The airport operator strongly advised all passengers to plan their journeys accordingly and to arrive at the airport well in advance of their scheduled departure to avoid any last-minute complications.
Nationwide Ripple Effect
The security directive was not confined to Delhi alone. Other major aviation hubs in the country swiftly followed suit. The Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru took to social media platform X to request passengers to arrive ahead of their schedule, citing enhanced security measures at airports across the country.
Similarly, Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) issued a parallel advisory, confirming that passenger screening protocols have been enhanced for all departing travelers. The airport authorities urged cooperation with security personnel and emphasized the importance of arriving early.
The Incident and Its Aftermath
The security clampdown comes after a tragic incident that shook the city. The car explosion in a busy area near the Red Fort on Monday resulted in a significant loss of life and property. Authorities have confirmed that the death toll has risen to 13, with at least 20 others sustaining injuries.
In response to the attack, the central government has initiated a high-level probe. The Ministry of Home Affairs has handed over the investigation to the National Investigation Agency (NIA). Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired two rounds of security review meetings on Tuesday to assess the situation. Reports suggest that the probe is treating the incident as a 'fidayeen' attack.
Meanwhile, the Delhi Police is conducting raids at multiple locations. The entire national capital has been placed on high alert, with stringent security vigil being maintained at key transit points including railway stations and bus terminals, in addition to the airports.
All airport stakeholders have assured the public that they are working in close coordination with security agencies to minimize passenger inconvenience while ensuring a safe and smooth travel experience for everyone.
