The Indian Air Force has begun an awareness campaign around Panagarh Air Base in West Bengal after a rise in bird activity near the airfield raised concerns about the safety of fighter aircraft taking off and landing there, according to a report by Sangbad Pratidin – Bengal.
The warning is linked to exposed fish and meat waste, leftover food and reports of dead animals and birds being left in and around the market areas near the base. Such waste can attract kites, vultures and other birds, increasing the possibility of bird strikes in the airspace around the airfield.
The report said aircraft movements take place daily at Panagarh. Air Force officials are concerned that even a small bird hitting an aircraft travelling at high speed can damage important components. In severe circumstances, the impact could create a major emergency within seconds and potentially cause an aircraft to crash.
The issue has become more significant because the airbase is located close to populated areas, including Panagarh market. The Air Force has therefore reached out to residents and others in adjoining areas to reduce the sources that are attracting birds towards the airfield.
Residents have been asked not to dispose of waste in open spaces. The guidance includes putting rubbish into designated bins, keeping waste covered in polythene and handing it over to the panchayat’s waste-collection vehicles. The appeal is directed particularly at preventing the open dumping of food, fish and meat waste, which can become a source of food for birds.
The Air Force has also urged residents of Panagarh market and neighbouring areas to remain especially careful in the interest of aviation safety. The campaign places responsibility for reducing the risk not only on the airbase but also on local waste-disposal practices around the civilian settlement.
The report did not provide details of a specific bird strike, aircraft damage or accident at Panagarh. It said the current concern relates to the increased presence of birds around the airbase and the preventive awareness drive being conducted by Air Force officials.
The immediate next step is for residents and local waste-management authorities to prevent refuse from being left in open areas around Panagarh market and the adjoining airbase zone. The Air Force’s appeal is for these measures to be followed regularly to reduce the possibility of an incident during aircraft operations.
