Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) gears up for its commercial launch later this year, the facility is setting new benchmarks in urban aviation safety through a comprehensive wildlife hazard management strategy. Spanning 1,160 hectares near sensitive wetlands, mangroves, and forest areas, the airport has adopted a multi-pronged approach combining technology, habitat modification, and community engagement to safeguard both aircraft operations and local biodiversity.
The airport, developed by a special purpose vehicle comprising a private airport operator and a state development corporation, has prioritised wildlife safety from the outset. Experts commissioned a decade-long bird survey in 2018, revealing 231 species within a 10-kilometre radius. Notably, the number of species observed directly on the airport grounds has reduced from 80 to 26 as of 2024, reflecting the impact of targeted habitat management. Habitat interventions have included the removal of invasive vegetation that attracts roosting birds and the diversion of river channels to reduce congregation near operational areas. High-risk zones have been meticulously mapped and geo-tagged to inform ongoing mitigation measures. Pre-licensing audits by certified wildlife management firms extended the monitoring radius to 13 kilometres, ensuring a thorough assessment of potential hazards.
Officials emphasise that the airport’s design actively discourages wildlife presence. “We have eliminated potential roosting and nesting sites and implemented physical barriers such as net-covered drains and a boundary wall reinforced with intrusion detection systems,” a senior airport official explained. A dedicated wildlife management team patrols the airfield using grid-based monitoring systems and employs bird-scaring devices and pyrotechnics to safely disperse birds. Teams also manage stray dogs and snakes in coordination with municipal and forest authorities. Technology plays a pivotal role in surveillance. GPS-enabled applications allow real-time monitoring, counting, and recording of wildlife movements, while night surveys ensure continuous vigilance. The Aerodrome Environment Management Committee (AEMC) coordinates efforts between the airport, local municipalities, and village panchayats. Monthly subcommittee meetings and awareness campaigns by NGOs further integrate community involvement into wildlife safety protocols.
Environmental experts, however, caution that the airport sits along critical migratory corridors between protected wetlands and sanctuaries. They stress that continued vigilance is necessary, citing nearby illegal poultry and meat processing activities that could compromise the effectiveness of safety measures. While the initiative reflects an advanced model of urban airport design prioritising eco-sustainability, officials acknowledge that long-term success will require constant adaptation, technological upgrades, and active community participation to harmonise aviation safety with environmental stewardship.
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