Govt considering proposal to enhance BCAS' supervisory powers

The government is considering a proposal to enhance the supervisory powers of the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security to give it more teeth as part of its restructuring, as heightened terror threats have led all airports to be on perpetual alert.

The government is considering a proposal to enhance the supervisory powers of the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) to give it more teeth as part of its restructuring, as heightened terror threats have led all airports to be on perpetual alert.

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Several rounds of discussions among ministries concerned, including Civil Aviation, Home and Defence, have taken place on the issue and moves are already afoot to induct more officers in the BCAS, official sources said here.

Currently, the entire security related activities at airports, including the role of the CISF, state police, fire brigade and other agencies, are guided and supervised by the BCAS. An Airport Director, representing airport operator, has to make available all required infrastructure for airport security as per BCAS guidelines.

While restructuring and strengthening the aviation security body was in an "advanced stage" of examination, the government was examining the issue of increasing its supervisory and inspectorial powers and responsibilities to cope with the new challenges to aviation security, the sources said.