CISF commandos denied drinking water at Bengaluru Airport?

The remote location of Bengaluru International Airport adds to the responsibility of the airport promoters BIAL, to ensure proper and adequate facilities for the people who work at the airport. I have always maintained that it is imperative to take care of the people who take care of us. Their comfort ensures efficiency and alertness. Two vital aspects in any operation, more so in an airport.

This report by Express News is most concerning.

They have been guarding the airports round-the-clock for a week now after a red-alert was sounded that there could be possible air-borne attacks and hijacking of aircraft.

But, for the 40-odd Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) commandos posted at various locations at the Bengaluru International Airport (BIA), the world-class airport is nothing short of a parched fortress.

The commandos who are part of the Quick Reaction Team (QRT) which was formed after the Mumbai attacks and the sounding of the red-alert, on 12-hour duty, alleged that they have not been provided with basic facilities at the airport.

“We are treated badly whenever we head to the water container to quench our thirst. We are shooed away by the airport officials. They ask us to fetch water from elsewhere,” a CISF commando told Express.

The commandos who have been posted at the parking bays and outside the terminal area among other locations, said that facilities at the HAL airport were better when they were posted there.

“At HAL airport, it was the AAI which was at the helm of affairs. But here the private promoters are not bothered about the CISF,” added a commando who moved to the BIA upon the closure of the HAL airport.Besides, CISF commandos say that they have to confine themselves to vehicles for accommodation.

I feel that the Express reporters should have requested for a response from BIAL, to understand their situation, reasons, and given a more balanced story. Assuming this story is true, I am horrified. Denying drinking water is not the done thing, EVER.

About Devesh Agarwal

A electronics and automotive product management, marketing and branding expert, he was awarded a silver medal at the Lockheed Martin innovation competition 2010. He is ranked 6th on Mashable's list of aviation pros on Twitter and in addition to Bangalore Aviation, he has contributed to leading publications like Aviation Week, Conde Nast Traveller India, The Economic Times, and The Mint (a Wall Street Journal content partner). He remains a frequent flier and shares the good, the bad, and the ugly about the Indian aviation industry without fear or favour.

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