Pune Airport Grapples with Bird Strike Risk Amidst Uncontrolled Development and Waste
Just two days before an Air India flight was grounded due to a bird hit, Pune International Airport Director Santosh Dhoke had alerted the Pune Municipal Commissioner (PMC) about escalating unauthorized constructions and garbage dumping near the airport. These issues, particularly along the eastern and western perimeter walls, are significantly increasing bird activity, posing a serious threat to aircraft safety.
On June 20, an Air India flight to Delhi was canceled after a bird strike was detected upon landing at Pune Airport. This incident follows a similar event on June 5, when a flight from Delhi to Pune was diverted to Surat due to suspected bird activity.
Airport Flags Multiple Concerns to PMC
In his letter to PMC chief Naval Kishore Ram, Dhoke highlighted three critical concerns:
- Unauthorized Structures: Numerous temporary structures, including shops, godowns, garages, and scrap yards, have reportedly sprung up around the airport without necessary permissions.
- Illegal Garbage Dumping: Unidentified individuals are consistently dumping garbage along both the eastern and western perimeter walls.
- Unapproved Land Development: Land development activities are observed near the airport, lacking clear approvals or zoning compliance.
The letter explicitly warns that “garbage dumping at the eastern and western ends of the airport perimeter wall has led to increased bird activity in the area. These locations fall directly under the approach and departure paths of aircraft. The presence of birds poses a significant risk of bird strikes, which could result in serious safety hazards for aircraft operations.” Dhoke has urged the PMC to verify these activities and take appropriate action.
Collaborative Efforts Needed for Resolution
Santosh Dhoke emphasized that the airport, in conjunction with the Indian Air Force, has consistently informed the PMC about these dangers. He stressed the urgency of clearing garbage, especially with the monsoon season approaching, as bird activity tends to surge during this period.
Sandip Kadam, Head of PMC’s Solid Waste Management department, confirmed receipt of the letter and stated that action is underway. His team visited the site, found construction material on a private plot, and issued a notice for its removal. Kadam also acknowledged reports of residents dumping food waste at night and assured that measures are being taken, requesting military cooperation for increased patrols.
