Mangaluru International Airport put its emergency protocols to the test on Monday, successfully conducting its annual bomb threat mock drill. The exercise was designed to rigorously assess the preparedness of all agencies to handle a serious security threat at this vital public asset.
Simulated Scenario Tests Coordination
The mock exercise revolved around a high-tension scenario: an unattended bag containing simulated explosives was discovered at the airport's integrated cargo terminal. This triggered the immediate activation of the airport's comprehensive security response plan.
The Airport Security Group (ASG) of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) took the lead in neutralizing the perceived threat. Their operation was executed with clockwork precision, demonstrating their specialized training for such critical incidents.
Multi-Agency Support in Real Time
The CISF's efforts were bolstered by real-time support from several key partners. The bomb detection and disposal squad (BDDS) of the Karnataka State Police and personnel from the Mangaluru City Police were integral to the simulated operation. Multiple internal airport stakeholders also participated, ensuring a seamless and coordinated approach across all departments.
This collaborative drill highlighted the importance of inter-agency synergy when responding to potential threats that could impact passenger safety and airport operations.
Post-Exercise Debrief for Continuous Improvement
Following the successful completion of the mock threat scenario, a detailed debriefing session was held. The meeting was chaired by Abhishek Yadav, Commandant and Chief Airport Security Officer.
The debrief focused on analyzing the effectiveness of the response. Officials discussed the strengths demonstrated during the drill and identified potential areas for improvement. Such reviews are crucial for refining standard operating procedures and enhancing the overall security posture of Mangaluru International Airport.
Conducting these annual exercises is a mandatory requirement and a critical component of proactive security management. They ensure that personnel remain vigilant, protocols are effective, and coordination between different agencies is well-practiced, ultimately safeguarding passengers and infrastructure.
