Stricter vigilance on chemical contraband like narcotics and explosives is now possible with the installation of chemical scanners at the Express Terminals at the Mumbai and Delhi International Airports. Continuing to extend support to the Indian Customs, Express Industry Council of India (EICI) has procured and installed chemical scanners at the two busiest airports in the country thus enabling quick and easy detection of narcotics and explosives with the help of an easy-to-use desktop system. The scanners at Delhi's IGI Airport were inaugurated by Dr. John Joseph, Commissioner of Customs, New Delhi.
Manufactured by General Electric, the scanner allows for advanced narcotic and explosive detection and it would play a deterrent for drug smugglers, terrorists, etc. from using courier companies for shipping their contraband. The new scanners are installed with an aim to combat the increasing rate of drug trafficking which is on the rise globally. The introduction of these new equipments will help the Indian Customs authority to stay a step ahead and assist them in curtailing the movement of banned and illegal drugs.
Called the Itimiser, this device detects traces of both positive and negative ions and identifies a broad range of narcotics and explosives. Reusable sample traps are swiped on a surface (baggage, cargo, containers) and then inserted into the Itemiser for analysis. The results, when printed out, can be attached to the cargo either giving it the all-clear or eliciting more stringent action from the Customs authorities.
About EICI:
Express Industry Council of India is an association that aims to protect and promote the common interests of Express Industry and its members. Its activities include interacting with the Government, the Customs, other Government Agencies and other like-minded bodies. EICI operates the common user express terminals at Mumbai and Delhi international airports for clearance of express shipments. EICI has been successful in eradicating major bottlenecks and delays caused to Express Industry.
