With IGI close, too many eyes watch over complex

New Delhi: More than 100 CCTV cameras and a 24X7 monitoring room keep a strict watch on every movement at Aerocity. Some of the cameras are capable of 360 degrees rotation and can read the number plates of cars entering the complex even in low visibility. The security set-up is not to protect the well-heeled who dine and meet at Aerocity. With the hangars of the Indira Gandhi International Airport just 300 metres away, the luxury hub is a security nightmare.
At the time of approval, the complex had a difficult time getting security clearance from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security and Delhi Police. “Keeping terrorist threats in mind, we had to get all the windows of every hotel facing the airport made bullet-proof,” said a senior police officer. “The proximity of Aerocity to RAW’s Aviation Research Centre has always been a serious concern for the security agencies and its location close to the hangars, a worry for the Directorate General of Civil Aviation.”
After its construction, its security was placed in the hands of the Security Review Committee comprising senior officials of the Research and Analysis Wing, Intelligence Bureau and Delhi Police. Most of the equipment being used on the premises have been tested and cleared by the Defence Research and Development Organisation.
There are six entrances to Aerocity, all manned by security guards. Face detection and biometric devices have been installed at the entrances to all the hotels, and no unauthorised person can walk into any of the buildings without prior permission.
“Our men are present at the monitoring room throughout, keeping a tight vigil,” said Dinesh Kumar Gupta, DCP, IGI. “With the increase in footfall, we have also increased the level of security and a 24x7 picket has been set up near the complex. Regular patrolling during the night is being carried out.”
Gupta added that in order to keep a sharp eye on everyday happenings there, an Aerocity Security Association has been formed, which has as members the security heads of all the hotels. Regular meetings are conducted to discuss security-related issues.
In addition to being bullet-proof, the glass panels on the façade of the hotel buildings facing the hangars have censors installed in them. Inspection of the security equipment is carried out regularly to ensure they are in top working condition.