Ladakh administration told to frame SOPs to curb unauthorised photography
STC NEWS MONITORING DESK
LEH, JUNE 24 (STC): In order to curb unauthorised photography and videography of sensitive areas, including the strategic Leh airport, the Ladakh administration has been directed to formulate Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). The directive follows concerns raised by the Indian Air Force (IAF) over security breaches, officials said.
The decision was taken at a high-level meeting chaired by Ladakh Civil Aviation Administrative Secretary Nidhi Malik to review operational and security issues flagged by Air Force Station Leh, they said.
Notably, as per reports quoting official sources, the IAF expressed serious concern over the “increasing circulation of photographs and videos” of operational zones on social media platforms, noting that such activities could compromise operational security.
Malik directed agencies to strengthen enforcement of existing regulations, launch public awareness campaigns regarding restricted areas, and frame appropriate SOPs, officials added.
The meeting also discussed IAF inputs on the proposed second runway, obstacle limitation requirements, airspace safety, and terrain constraints.
Air Force officials stressed the need for scientific assessment of physical obstructions that could affect flight operations.
Malik directed the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), Revenue Department, and other technical agencies to survey identified locations and submit a report with technical assessments and recommendations, officials said.
Concerns over CCTV cameras and surveillance infrastructure overlooking Air Force establishments were also reviewed. It was decided that such installations would be permitted only after obtaining necessary clearances from competent authorities, they said.
The meeting further reviewed unauthorised constructions, building permissions, and land-use violations around aviation safety zones. Malik underscored the need for strict adherence to construction regulations and directed departments to strengthen monitoring mechanisms, officials added.
(Straight Talk Communications I Inputs from KNS)
