Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed on Tuesday told Parliament that the government has taken a series of comprehensive initiatives to further strengthen security at the country’s international airports.
“Overall security at the country’s international airports has already been ensured. However, Bangladesh Police has taken a number of plans and is implementing them to further enhance security,” he said in response to a starred tabled question from ruling party lawmaker elected from Noakhali-5 Mohammed Fakhrul Islam in Parliament.
He said checkpoints have been set up at entry and exit points as well as other important places while police patrols have been intensified in airport areas.
The minister said a multi-layered security system has been introduced to ensure effective protection, and necessary actions are being taken based on intelligence inputs to prevent any ill attempt.
He said security services are being strengthened through coordinated efforts and information sharing among police, intelligence agencies and airport authorities.
Highlighting surveillance system, Salahuddin said, “Police surveillance has been increased to prevent theft and snatching incidents, CCTV cameras have been installed at important places and modern information technology is being used to ensure overall security.”
He further said modern equipment and advanced technology are being used, adding, “Scanning system has been strengthened to ensure that no prohibited items can enter airport premises.”
The minister also said special training programmes are being conducted to combat terrorism, ensure cyber security and handle emergency situation effectively.
He said security has also been reinforced through the introduction of technology-based modern baggage systems, expansion of immigration counters, installation of advanced scanning machines, manpower increase and reorganization, and the use of body-worn cameras.
“Strict monitoring has been put in place to prevent passenger harassment, and help desks have been introduced at airports to assist travellers,” he added.