The Civil Aviation Officers Association of Pakistan (CAOP) has urged the management of Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport to review recently imposed security measures and adopt advanced technology to enhance safety without inconveniencing passengers.
The airport authorities now require
visitors to carry a ticket copy and national identity card to enter the
premises, and only a limited number of people are allowed to accompany
passengers. These measures follow a tragic attack on a Chinese convoy near the
airport, which claimed two lives and left several injured.
Traffic and Accessibility Concerns
The security upgrades have also led to the closure of a key road from Model
Colony to Jinnah Terminal, while checkpoints have been established on routes
from Pehlwan Goth and Star Gate. These changes have worsened traffic
congestion, compounding challenges for commuters.
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Call for Balanced Security Protocols
In a letter to the Pakistan Airport Authority's Director Vigilance, CAOP
Chairman Zarin Gul Durrani emphasized the need to balance stringent security
measures with passenger convenience. While supporting stronger security,
Durrani argued that some restrictions might not significantly enhance safety
but instead create undue burdens on travelers and their families.
“The current approach, which adds
extra requirements for those dropping off or picking up passengers, could be
more efficient if it targeted actual threats,” he stated.
Recommendations for Modern Security
Solutions
Durrani advocated for the use of advanced security technologies such as:
- CCTV surveillance
- Biometric scanners
- AI-based threat detection systems
He stressed that these tools could
enhance safety while minimizing inconvenience for passengers and visitors.
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Importance of Staff Training
Durrani also highlighted the necessity of advanced training for security
personnel, ensuring they are equipped to handle potential threats effectively.
“Empowering staff with comprehensive
training will not only prepare them for unforeseen situations but also
reinforce passenger safety,” he concluded.
The CAOP’s recommendations aim to
strike a balance between robust security and passenger comfort, encouraging the
adoption of efficient, technology-driven measures.
Source: The News