NHRC issues notice to Centre over falling glass panels at Chennai airport

New Delhi: The NHRC has issued notices to Union Ministry of Civil Aviation and Airports Authority of India on a complaint that the Chennai Airport despite being modernised in 2012 has witnessed 61 incidents of glass fall in recent times, endangering safety of travellers.

"Providing safety and security to passengers is one of the cardinal duties of airline operators and also of airport authorities. Further, the quality and standard of construction of airports should be as per required safety standards.

"It is really surprising that despite 61 incidents of glass fall, the authorities appear to have not paid heed to the safety concerns of people. If the allegations levelled are true, the matter needs to be inquired into," observed Justice D Murugesan, Member, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).

Accordingly it has issued notices to the Secretary, Union Ministry of Civil Aviation and Chairman, Airports Authority of India seeking detailed reports in the matter.

According to the complaint, received in the Commission on April 4, the Chennai Airport was fully modernised in 2012 and within six months of the renovation, the ceiling of the terminal had fallen down, which continued to happen.

Due to this, there is a continuous fear amongst travellers, employees etc. The quality of construction at the Chennai Airport and its sustainability is questionable, highlighted the report.