Efforts to mitigate congestion at major airports, particularly at Delhi Airport, have been systematically undertaken through an array of strategic measures. These measures, designed to enhance passenger convenience while ensuring stringent security protocols, aim to streamline the airport experience for travelers.
The comprehensive steps implemented at these airports encompass a wide spectrum of strategies:
- Deployment of Additional Traffic Marshals: To alleviate vehicular congestion, supplementary traffic marshals have been stationed at departure forecourts.
- Real-time Information Display: Boards displaying the least waiting time and entry gate numbers guide passengers in planning their entry in advance.
- Real-time Waiting Time Updates: Entry gate display boards provide real-time waiting data, and this information is disseminated through social media channels.
- Passenger Awareness: Awareness posters at entry gates prompt passengers to have their necessary documents ready, while dedicated staff assist passengers accordingly.
- Increased Entry Gates: To facilitate smoother passenger entry, additional entry gates have been opened.
- Enhanced Security Zone: The creation of a new security zone, Zone 0, within Terminal 3 at Delhi Airport has been initiated.
- Augmented Security Infrastructure: Additional X-ray machines for baggage checks and heightened deployment of Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel have addressed security bottlenecks.
- CCTV Monitoring: Continuous monitoring through CCTV and a dedicated command center ensures comprehensive oversight.
- Crowd Management Tools: The utilization of count meters and effective crowd management strategies has been integrated into operations.
- Terminal Traffic Optimization: Optimization of flight slots between terminals during peak hours helps rebalance traffic flow.
- Manpower Deployment: Advisories to airlines encourage sufficient manpower deployment at check-in and baggage drop counters.
- Assistance for Passengers: Dedicated assistance for international passengers, encouraging the completion of disembarkation cards, has been provided at points of disembarkation.
- Encouraging DigiYatra: Encouragement for passengers to use DigiYatra, a biometric-enabled seamless travel experience using Facial Recognition Technology, has been a focus, along with related inflight announcements.
- Automated Entry: 2D barcode scanners installed at entry gates facilitate automated entry processes.
- Compliance Focus: Emphasis on full compliance with barcode ticketing by airlines ensures streamlined passenger flow at entry and security gates.
- Continuous Monitoring: Stringent monitoring at multiple levels—airport operators, airlines, and the Ministry of Civil Aviation—ensures the implementation of these mitigation measures.
These measures, meticulously outlined by Gen. (Dr) V. K. Singh (Retd), Minister of State in the Ministry of Civil Aviation, underscore the commitment to ensuring passenger comfort without compromising on stringent security protocols at major airports. The concerted efforts aim to create a seamless and efficient travel experience for passengers, emphasizing safety and convenience as paramount concerns.