The Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru had a moment of crisis in the early hours of Wednesday when a major fire broke out. The sudden breakout triggered panic among the staff and passengers alike. However, no major injuries or loss of life was reported. Also, there was no disruption in the flight schedule due to this mishap.
Fire Broke Out At Food & Beverage Outlets
According to a spokesperson for Bangalore International Airport Limited, “There was a fire-related incident at a food and beverage outlets, away from the terminal, at the Bengaluru airport campus in the early hours of Wednesday, May 29. Trained personnel on the scene extinguished the fire using fire fighting equipment.”
He further added, “No one was injured in the incident and it had no impact on airport operations. An in-depth fire-safety audit is being carried out. The affected area has been cordoned off and temporarily closed.”
However, no information was given related to the cause or the effect of fire on the airport. Some officials have stated that it was possibly caused due to short circuit. The Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) has ordered an investigation on fire safety facilities available at KIA.
Very recently, the BIAL employed 14 women firefighters into its squad of Aircraft Rescue & Fire Fighting (ARFF) and became the first airport in India to employ women firefighters in its squad. Incidentally, it is also the first Asian airport to induct women firefighters in such a large number.
KIA To Shut Its International & Domestic Lounges
Currently, KIA is the third busiest airport in the country and the busiest airport in South India. Just a few days ago, the airport announced that it is shutting down its domestic and international lounges temporarily for renovation from the start of June.
At present, the Bengaluru Airport has two lounges at the Domestic SHA, and two at International Security Hold Area (SHA). The authorities are planning to complete the renovation process in two phases in the duration of over 18 to 20 months.
