Post News Network
Bhubaneswar, March 29: The loosely fitted electrical connections of advertisement signboards at Biju Patnaik International Airport’s (BPIA) domestic terminal T1 are posing a serious security risk to visitors. Commercial ad boards are installed at several lanes in front of terminal T1 to promote various brands.
During a reality check Sunday, it was found the electrical wires of several signboards that are lit up throughout the night were not tied properly and exposed because of poor upkeep by the agency that put up these boards. These boards were installed under a contract given by the Airports Authority of India.
The advertisement boards are getting electricity from individual sources. The electrical connections are not conforming to safety guidelines and chances of a mishap are for real. At some places, the wires are found exposed under the boards. Many visitors including children who turn up at terminal T1 to receive their relatives often sit for long periods near these boards, heightening the security risk.
A central industrial security force (CISF) jawan deployed at T1 admitted that there was a security risk. “A few wires are not tied properly and could lead to sparks and fire,” he said.
“I have noticed some of the exposed wires near the boards, which are really shocking and should be fixed by the authorities at the earliest. People who are sitting on the boundary adjacent to these sign boards should walk attentively while passing through the second lane,” a flyer Abhinav Sharma, who was going to board IndiGo’s evening flight, said.
When contacted for response, airport director Sharad Kumar said the issue would be examined immediately and the firm would be asked to fix the problem. “If any visitor came across such problems at T1, they are requested to bring this to the attention of the terminal manager. Alternatively, mails can be sent to me on [email protected],” Kumar said and promised quick action.
