STATE-OF-THE-ART surveillance at Bahrain International Airport (BIA) has helped the country enhance security and curb cross-border crime, an official has said.
More than 4,000 security cameras and 30 facial recognition cameras are among the latest ‘smart’ technologies operational at the BIA as it gears up to receive 14 million passengers a year.
“With the continuous development of crime, the latest devices which are characterised by their high quality and speed have been provided in the field of security inspection to detect prohibited materials,” BIA Police Directorate director Colonel Duaij Al Kuwari said in an interview to the Interior Ministry’s Al Amn (Security) magazine.
He said modern technologies would also ensure smooth passenger movement.
“X-ray inspection devices can detect solid and liquid explosive materials,” he said.
“We also have body scanners and explosive detection devices. The modern and advanced operating room is equipped with cameras, access control systems, video analytics, alarm systems and a physical information security system.
“Thirty security cameras with facial recognition technology compare specific features from an image with those in the previously saved database and this makes it easier for airport police to apprehend criminals and suspects at BIA. This will help combat cross-border crimes.
“Nearly 4,000 other cameras have also been installed which are monitored through a hi-tech control room.
“Modern technology and smart cameras for video analytics issue alerts to control rooms about important developments or in the event of something unfamiliar happening in the airport premises. It includes unclaimed bags and packages, unauthorised use of electronic doors, fire alarms and other systems. It could even be large crowds at any spots or individuals arousing suspicion or walking in the opposite direction.”
The security surveillance camera transmits high-quality images directly and can be used to record events round-the-clock while allowing for playback as images or videos.
Colonel Al Kuwari also highlighted effective sensor systems around the airport to monitor the external perimeter.
“It sends an alert signal to the control room in the event of sabotage or an attempt to infiltrate and accordingly the observer turns cameras towards the location to monitor the suspicious situation,” he added.
“Smart cameras outside the airport contain a vehicle plate reader system and these are operational at the top of the bridge (departures) and below the bridge (arrivals) and at entrances of car parks to monitor vehicles and their drivers.
“The system records number plates of vehicles entering the airport building and provides daily statistics while also issuing a warning to the control room in case a ‘wanted’ vehicle is spotted.
“This facilitates the seizure of vehicles and the records can be used while hunting for vehicles or drivers linked to previous crimes.”
The official added that employees were being trained to keep pace with the developments in the security field.
“We are also collaborating with the Bahrain Airport Services Company, the Royal Police Academy, and the Gulf Aviation Academy to keep abreast of all developments,” he said.
The GDN reported in February that the second phase of the new passenger terminal is on track, with more than 80 per cent of the hub already complete.
The project which was first launched a year ago, is expected to be completed during the second quarter of this year. It includes the construction of three departure gates connected to seven air bridges, one of which can accommodate a 380 aircraft. It also features bus departure gates, as well as the third and final stage of the aviation fuel supply system, which would enable the airport to grow in the long term.
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