Latest news with #RamjeeAwasthi
Time of India
18 hours ago
- Time of India
Raja Bhoj Airport takes up slew of measures to boost safety, efficiency
Bhopal: Raja Bhoj Airport in Bhopal is undergoing significant renovations. The facility is implementing new features and enhancing existing infrastructure to boost safety and operational efficiency. The enhancements comprise an extended runway safety area, a newly constructed air traffic control tower, and improved emergency access routes. Additional developments include a new taxi track, fire station, and enhanced radar capabilities. These modifications are designed to comply with safety protocols and accommodate increased air traffic. Director, Ramjee Awasthi, said that safety for passengers and aircraft was their priority. "Our objective is to provide the best service to the travellers. Safety is an important aspect, and our objective is to implement the best possible safety measures at the airport," said Director Awasthi. The airport's recent focus on safety has yielded several crucial improvements. "A notable enhancement is the extended Runway End Safety Area (RESA), which increased from 90 metres to 150 metres, providing aircraft with additional stopping distance in case of runway overruns," he added. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Show Your Patriotism: American Flag Bald Eagle Garland Graddi Read More Undo A newly constructed Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower replaces the previous structure, which was problematically positioned. The new tower provides controllers with enhanced visibility of the airfield, enabling more precise aircraft guidance. The facility has also realigned its boundary wall in the operational zone on the 30 side, enhancing operational safety and efficiency. New emergency access roads have been constructed along both sides of the runway, adhering to Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) specifications. These routes ensure swift access for emergency vehicles during incidents. The airport's approach system was upgraded from CAT I to CAT II, enabling aircraft landings in reduced visibility conditions and minimising weather-related disruptions. Ongoing developments include the construction of a full-length parallel taxi track, scheduled for completion by June 2026, which will facilitate improved aircraft movement. A fire station is under construction to enhance the airport's fire safety classification and operational capabilities. The implementation of a new Monopulse Secondary Surveillance Radar (MSSR) is underway, with completion expected by Dec 2025, to improve air traffic management. Additional operational area realignment works are scheduled for completion by Dec 2025. These enhancements demonstrate Raja Bhoj Airport's dedication to safety and operational excellence. The facility continues to adapt to increasing air travel demands whilst ensuring compliance with DGCA CAR requirements, benefiting passengers, airlines, and the local community.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Laser beams & meat shops major issues: Airport
Bhopal: The airport administration faces serious challenges with unauthorised laser beams and meat shops in the vicinity. Despite penalties and cautions, infractions persist, jeopardising aircraft safety. The district administration initiated fresh action. A recent Airfield Environment Management Committee discussed various security protocols, sanitation, and environmental conditions around the airport premises. The committee stressed the necessity of comprehensive security assessments. Directives included strengthened police surveillance and the installation of street lights beneath the flyover and adjacent areas to deter unlawful activities. Airport authorities continue to press for stringent enforcement of regulations against laser and bright lighting near the airport and flight paths. Laser beams or intense lights directed at aircraft create significant hazards. "The primary concern involves bright visible laser light causing pilot disorientation or momentary vision impairment during crucial flight phases like landing or takeoff. Although less frequent, both visible and invisible beams could potentially cause lasting eye damage to pilots. These illuminations interfere with safe aircraft landing procedures," said Director Airport, Ramjee Awasthi. He added, "Same is the problem with the meat shop nearby as it attracts birds. This is also a major issue." After receiving numerous pilot reports, the airport authority sought support from district officials. They request strict prohibition of such lights within four to five kilometres of airport grounds. Present-day events often feature elaborate stages with high-intensity laser beams alongside LED mapping and music. The Airport Authority of India (AAI) advises against such displays. Laser usage at night presents particular risks. Officials said that to combat the meat shop issue, they are implementing a structured relocation programme. The plan includes identifying suitable alternative locations and providing compensation packages to affected shop owners. The Divisional Commissioner office required No Objection Certificates (NOC) from the Aviation Authority of India for construction near the airport in both urban and rural areas. Building work requires prior NOC approval, with the municipal corporation tasked to implement this requirement. Follow more information on Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad here . Get real-time live updates on rescue operations and check full list of passengers onboard AI 171 .
