Meeting of the National Civil Aviation Security Committee (NCASC) Held

The meeting was chaired by Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroz Khanam, MP, as President of the Committee, with State Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat present as Vice-President.

In her address, Minister Afroz Khanam said that decisions of the 13th meeting of this highest policy-making and coordinating committee for ensuring security in the aviation sector must be implemented swiftly. She noted that the ICAO audit will be held very soon, and the country's image is tied to their observations. Therefore, measures must be taken to ensure compliance with any issues that may be observed by ICAO.

The Minister further said that security protocols apply equally to VIPs, CIPs, and everyone else. Therefore, everyone must equally follow protocols to ensure airport security. She stated that ensuring passenger service is their priority, and she called upon all concerned to step forward to ensure improved passenger services for expatriate brothers.

State Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat said that initiatives will be taken to install Anti-Drone Systems to prevent drone flights in airport areas. He emphasized that the effectiveness of today's meeting, held after nearly three years, must be ensured by all. Additionally, security-related equipment and scanners must be maintained in excess of the required numbers.

At this time, the State Minister instructed members of law enforcement agencies present to take a firm stance if any legal violations occur.

The meeting discussed various important issues to make the country's civil aviation security system more effective, coordinated, and compliant with international standards. Key discussions focused on strengthening information sharing and coordination among intelligence agencies to address potential security threats, effective implementation of the National Civil Aviation Security Program, adherence to the security standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), integration of modern security technology and equipment at airports, review of existing security policies, and adoption of necessary strategic measures to address future security challenges.

Notably, the meeting emphasized the need to further strengthen security measures at the entrances of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, the effectiveness of the Under Vehicle Scanning System (UVSS) installed at key airport entry points, and the necessity of formulating Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with relevant ministries and agencies to make contingency and crisis management activities more effective at all civil airports in the country.

Furthermore, the meeting emphasized that CAAB, APBn, Police, Ansar, Airport Magistrates, and all concerned agencies should play a more active role in controlling traffic congestion, unruly crowds, nuisance of beggars, and illegal luggage wrapping activities in the landside area of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. Recommendations were also made to take legal action as necessary to further improve passenger service, discipline, and overall airport security.