DGCA In Shambolic State Of Affairs?

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is currently managing airports with little more than a reliance on ad-hoc arrangements, a situation aptly described as operating on "ram-bharose." The recent accident in Ahmedabad has unveiled a troubling series of deficiencies in the management and operation of airports across the country. A significant number of airports are operating without a permanent, authoritative figure at the helm, specifically a Director of Airport. In many cases, when existing officers are reassigned or leave their posts, the responsibility typically falls on the shoulders of the next senior officer, who is often unprepared for such a critical role. The appointment of a regular Director has languished in bureaucratic limbo for far too long, leading to a vacuum in leadership that adversely affects airport operations. Additionally, key positions such as Security Officers and various senior roles remain unfilled, compounding the issue source says. The role of Security Officer in the aviation sector is crucial and demands rigorous scrutiny and specialized training. However, reports indicate that numerous such posts are vacant at different locations, with day-to-day operations being managed by temporary or substitute staff who may lack the necessary credentials.

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security, also facing a significant number of unfilled vacancies, presents a disturbing trend that raises serious alarms. Investigative agencies have identified numerous lapses in safety and security protocols, warning that these oversights pose immediate concerns that demand the government’s swift intervention. The safety and security of passengers must be of paramount importance, and the current situation undoubtedly requires urgent corrective measures to ensure that proper oversight and protection are re-established within the aviation sector source says.