DGCA Cracks Down on Ulwe Bird Attracting Activities Near Airport

As the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) approaches its operational launch, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued a directive to address activities in the vicinity that could increase the risk of bird strikes. The focus is on unregulated animal slaughter in Ulwe, a locality situated approximately 3 km from the airport’s runway.

Environmental activists have raised alarms about the unauthorized slaughter of goats and chickens in Ulwe, which may attract scavenger birds, thereby elevating the risk of bird strikes—a significant safety concern for aviation operations. These concerns have prompted the DGCA to instruct the airport operator to take immediate action to mitigate such risks.

Environmentalist B N Kumar, director of the NatConnect Foundation, highlighted the issue in a complaint filed with the Prime Minister’s Public Grievance Portal on 24 February. He claimed that the presence of food waste and animal carcasses had led to a spike in bird activity in the area, posing a serious risk of bird strikes to aircraft. “The presence of food waste and carcasses has led to a surge in bird activity, increasing the risk of bird strikes to aircraft,” said Kumar.

The DGCA’s intervention underscores the critical importance of adhering to established safety protocols. According to regulations, animal slaughter is prohibited within a 10 km radius of any airport to prevent attracting birds to the area. This guideline is part of a broader effort to ensure the safety of aircraft during takeoff and landing phases, which are particularly vulnerable to bird strike incidents. In response to the DGCA’s directive, local authorities and the NMIA operator are expected to intensify enforcement measures to eliminate unauthorised slaughter activities in Ulwe. This includes conducting regular inspections, imposing penalties for violations, and raising public awareness about the potential dangers associated with such practices.

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The NMIA is poised to become a significant hub in the region, alleviating congestion at Mumbai’s existing international airport. Ensuring the safety of its operations is paramount, and addressing environmental factors that could compromise this safety is a critical component of the airport’s operational readiness. As the airport nears its opening date, stakeholders are urged to collaborate closely to maintain a safe and secure environment, free from activities that could jeopardize aviation safety. The DGCA’s proactive stance serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance and adherence to safety regulations in the face of urban development and environmental challenges.

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DGCA Cracks Down on Ulwe Bird Attracting Activities Near Airport