Dhaka, Dec 24 (V7N) — An 'Airport Emergency Exercise' was held at the capital's Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on Tuesday morning to test preparedness and response to emergency situations. The drill simulated the safe removal and deactivation of a bomb-like object from an aircraft, along with the rescue of passengers.

Organized by the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) guidelines, the exercise took place between 11 am and 12 pm. Nearly 200 trained personnel from various security agencies, including the Army, Police, RAB, Ansar, and Fire Service, participated in the drill.

The scenario began with the airport control tower receiving a report of a suspected bomb on an aircraft. Airport Executive Director Group Captain Kamrul Islam promptly coordinated with various agencies to initiate emergency protocols. The bomb disposal unit successfully neutralized the simulated threat, showcasing a swift and coordinated response.

Participants included personnel from the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, APBN, DMP, Directorate General of Health Services, and hospitals like Kurmitola and Jahan Ara. Representatives from Biman Bangladesh Airlines and two private airlines also took part.

Air Vice Marshal Md. Manjur Kabir Bhuiyan, Chairman of CAAB, attended as the chief guest. Praising the participants, he highlighted the importance of regular training and drills to maintain operational readiness.

"Today's exercise demonstrated our ability to respond quickly and effectively to potential threats, in line with ICAO standards," he said. "The collaboration and performance of all agencies were commendable, ensuring that we are prepared to handle any such situation in the future."

Senior officials from CAAB, civil aviation, and tourism were present to observe the drill, which was deemed a success in enhancing airport security preparedness.

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