Patna, May 15 (IANS) Following the formal handover of security responsibilities at Darbhanga Airport, Director General of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Praveer Ranjan, visited the airport to assess operational preparedness and welfare arrangements for deployed personnel.

He was accompanied by senior officers, including Binita Thakur and Senthil Avoodai Krishna Raj S.

During the visit, the DG inspected barrack accommodations, mess facilities, the Security Hold Area (SHA), and other critical infrastructure to ensure seamless deployment and adherence to aviation security protocols laid down by BCAS.

The visit reaffirmed CISF’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of aviation security and personnel welfare.

Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary had formally handed over the airport’s security to CISF during a ceremony held on Thursday.

Earlier, airport security was handled by the Bihar Police.

With this development, Darbhanga has become the 72nd airport in the country to come under CISF protection, and the third in Bihar after Patna and Gaya.

The deployment is considered strategically significant due to the airport’s proximity to the India–Nepal border, a region often flagged for concerns such as smuggling, cross-border activities, and emerging drone-related threats.

The border stretches approximately 729 kilometres, making enhanced surveillance crucial.

In the first phase, around 145 CISF personnel have been deployed.

Their responsibilities include passenger safety, baggage screening, surveillance of suspicious activities, and emergency response.

A multi-layered security system has been put in place, incorporating high-tech screening systems, CCTV surveillance, access control mechanisms, and anti-sabotage checks.

Specialised units have also been stationed, including Quick Response Teams (QRTs), a Bomb Disposal Squad, and K-9 units trained in explosives detection to handle emergencies effectively.

Notably, Darbhanga Airport operates as a civil enclave within an Indian Air Force station, necessitating heightened vigilance.

In recent years, Darbhanga Airport has emerged as a crucial lifeline for North Bihar.

Launched under the Central Government’s UDAN scheme, it has significantly improved regional connectivity.

Passenger traffic has been steadily rising, positively impacting trade, employment, and tourism in the region.

–IANS

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