Biju Patnaik International Airport, India, to enhance CBRN threat preparedness
Biju Patnaik International Airport in Odisha state, eastern India, is set to significantly enhance its preparedness against CBRN threats by developing specialised infrastructure, recruiting additional personnel and imparting advanced training to emergency responders.
According to an article published by Ommcom News, airport authorities said the initiative is aimed at equipping the airport to effectively handle potential CBRN emergencies, an area in which the airport currently lacks the requisite expertise and facilities.
Airport director Prasanna Pradhan said the Central Industrial Security Force, being the first responder in such situations, would undergo specialised training to identify and respond to suspicious weapons and hazardous materials.
As part of the preparedness plan, the airport will create secure storage facilities for hazardous substances, radiation-handling units and specialised containment systems for nuclear-related devices. Authorities are also considering augmenting manpower to strengthen the airport’s emergency response capabilities.
The airport rescue and fire fighting teams will play an equally crucial role and will receive specialised training to manage emergencies arising from the detection of CBRN threats.
