
Security has long been an integral part of building design, and as threats evolve, so too must the approaches to safeguarding property and personnel. The recent conversation during the Clean India Show 2024 featuring Lt Cdr (Dr) Husein Sakerwala, Adani Electricity Mumbai Ltd and Retd Brig. Neil John, ADANI sheds light on the evolving landscape of security practices in corporate settings. The discussions focus on the critical role of technology, manpower, and strategic planning in creating secure environments, especially in large corporate setups.
Lt Cdr (Dr) Husein Sakerwala, Asst. VP-Head of Security, Adani Electricity Mumbai Ltd, emphasizes that security should be embedded from the very beginning of the building’s design process. “Security is integral to the building design – planning stage – not done after the building is up and running,” he notes. This proactive approach is aligned with the principles of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED), a concept that originated in the United States. CPTED advocates for designing spaces in such a way that they naturally deter criminal activity.
For instance, at Adani’s electricity receiving stations across Mumbai, the security system was revamped to ensure better visibility and lower costs. While earlier designs used solid brick walls and cameras, newer renovations implemented chain-link fences. This allowed for clear visibility while still maintaining security, offering a cost-effective solution without compromising on the protective elements.
Bridging Military Strategy with Corporate Security
Retd Brig. Neil John, Chief of Security at ADANI (Dharavi Redevelopment Project Pvt. Ltd), brings a military perspective to corporate security. Drawing parallels with naval strategy, he compares the security of a corporate site to a “Carrier Battle Group” in the sea, where a ship is surrounded by multiple layers of defence to protect it from external threats. “In the Navy, we form tiered layers of security to prevent the enemy from reaching the ship,” he says, highlighting the importance of multiple layers of defence in both military and corporate settings.
John also points out the systemic ignorance surrounding security in industries. Many companies fail to evaluate potential threats comprehensively before implementing security measures. “In reality, we are given a building with no security, and we just put up cameras without thinking about internal and external threats,” he states. This lack of foresight can be detrimental, especially when buildings are located in politically volatile areas or places with a higher probability of crime.
John stresses that effective security requires both technological support and human involvement. “A man standing guard + tech – that’s the best combination,” he says. Cameras alone cannot provide complete security; human presence and monitoring are necessary to ensure visibility and respond to potential threats in real time.
The Business Impact of Security
A key takeaway from the discussion is that security should no longer be viewed solely as a cost centre but rather as a business enabler. Dr Sakerwala reflects on the common perception that security measures, such as cameras and control systems, are expensive and yield uncertain returns. “How many people think security is a cost centre, having to pump in money into cameras, solutions, and controls?” he asks.
However, the value of security becomes evident when considering its impact on business operations. “Security affects business decisions through the information provided,” Sakerwala points out. Whether dealing with internal theft, sabotage, or external threats, lapses in security can lead to significant losses over time, both financially and reputationally. He further emphasizes the need for comprehensive security management that spans beyond visible deterrents like gates and guards. “Today, security is much more than the guard standing on the ground,” he explains. Security is about ensuring the safety of employees, assets, and data, often through integrated systems that involve IT and facilities management.
Innovations in Security Technology
When discussing the future of security, the conversation naturally shifts toward the role of technology. Dr Sakerwala outlines the innovative security measures implemented at the Adani Corporate House, including cutting-edge technologies for surveillance and response. The building, touted as one of the smartest in Asia, utilizes video cameras with advanced analytics to provide real-time alerts. These cameras not only monitor for suspicious activity but also detect specific incidents such as someone not wearing a mask during the pandemic or a suspicious bag left unattended.
Moreover, the integration of artificial intelligence has enabled proactive security responses. The AI system can identify unusual behaviour, such as loitering or unauthorized access, and trigger immediate alerts. The system was even programmed earlier to monitor employee health by blacklisting individuals who tested positive, ensuring they stayed in quarantine for the prescribed 14-day period. These innovations demonstrate how technology can enhance security, but Dr Sakerwala cautions that tech alone cannot replace human intervention. “Tech has defined augmented physical security, but it cannot replace it completely,” he states.
Integrated Security Control Rooms
Another significant shift in modern security practices is the integration of security systems within centralized control rooms. Traditionally, control rooms were separate from other building management systems, with security operators manually monitoring screens and responding to alerts. Today, however, these systems are integrated, allowing security personnel to respond more efficiently to real-time threats.
Sakerwala highlights this evolution, explaining that in buildings like Adani’s, which are equipped with over 3,000 cameras, AI analytics can quickly identify anomalies. The operator receives an alert and can immediately dispatch a quick reaction team to handle the situation. “Security is about liaising control, negotiating strategy, planning, and using futuristic technology in time,” Sakerwala affirms.
Proactive Threat Identification
A particularly insightful part of the discussion revolves around the need to identify security threats before they escalate into major incidents. Brigadier John draws a fascinating analogy with military tactics: “In the Army, we lay minefields to delay the enemy’s movement.” This approach, he argues, can be applied to corporate security as well. By understanding vulnerabilities and implementing preventive measures, companies can reduce the likelihood of a security breach.
For instance, in highly sensitive locations, vehicle scanning technology can help identify potential threats such as explosives. Dr Sakerwala points out that under-belly scanners are available and can detect suspicious objects attached to vehicles, such as bombs. However, he notes that these technologies are not widely implemented due to concerns over return on investment. Despite these challenges, both speakers agree that advanced technology can significantly enhance security when used strategically and with foresight.
The Need for a Collaborative Approach
Ultimately, the conversation stresses the importance of collaboration across departments to ensure security is seamlessly integrated into business operations. “Security, admin, facilities management, and other departments can come together and work rather than working in silos,” says Dr Sakerwala. By breaking down these silos, organizations can create more efficient and effective security systems that protect both physical and digital assets.
The evolving nature of corporate security demands a shift in how it is approached. Security is no longer just about having a guard at the gate; it’s about leveraging technology, human expertise, and strategic planning to create a safe and secure environment for all stakeholders. As demonstrated at Adani Corporate House, integrating security into the planning and design phases, utilizing advanced technology, and ensuring a collaborative approach across departments can provide a robust security framework that benefits both the organization and its employees.
As security continues to evolve, organizations that embrace these innovative approaches will be better positioned to protect their assets and ensure business continuity in an increasingly complex world.