Kolkata airport gets five-tier security

Mid heightened tensions in the subcontinent and an intelligence-based alert from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International (NSCBI) Airport in Kolkata has been placed under an unprecedented five-tier security system, enforced by the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).

- RAJIB CHAKRABORTY

Officials say the measures are part of an integrated, round-the-clock counter-sabotage plan designed to neutralise potential threats to one of India's busiest and most strategically located international airports. Senior CISF officers confirmed that the tightened regime, spanning perimeter surveillance, access control, terminal building security, passenger and baggage screening, and airside security, was triggered by credible intelligence inputs hinting at possible disruptions.

A senior CISF official, speaking on condition of anonymity, described the plan as "foolproof and comprehensive," incorporating coordination with national intelligence units including the Intelligence Bureau (IB), the elite National Security Guard (NSG), the state police, and representatives of the cabinet secretariat.

"It's not just about passenger safety anymore," the official said. "We're dealing with scenarios where the airport itself may be a high-value target."