In a proactive step toward enhancing aviation safety, the Airfield Environment Management Committee (AEMC) of Maharaja Bir Bikram (MBB) Airport, Agartala, has strongly recommended the establishment of a 10-kilometre bird-free zone around the airport. The move follows a recent tragic air crash in Ahmedabad and aims to mitigate bird strike risks during takeoff and landing phases.
🛫 Why a Bird-Free Zone?
The AEMC, chaired by West Tripura District Magistrate Vishal Kumar, emphasized that bird activity near airports poses a serious threat to aircraft safety. The committee urged all stakeholders to collaborate on waste management, solid waste disposal, and habitat control to reduce bird attraction near the airport premises.
“We strongly suggest a 10-km radius around the airport shall be a bird-free zone to ensure safe and sustainable flight operations,” said K.C. Meena, Director of MBB Airport.
🧹 Key Measures Discussed
- Effective waste disposal to eliminate food sources for birds
- Solid waste handling protocols near airport boundaries
- Coordination among civic bodies, including Agartala Municipal Corporation, police, and health services
- Continuous monitoring and timely action to mitigate environmental hazards
🤝 District Administration’s Support
The District Magistrate assured full administrative backing for implementing the recommendations, including inter-agency coordination and public awareness campaigns to maintain an eco-friendly airfield environment.
✈️ National Context
The recommendation aligns with Rule 91 of the Aircraft Rules, 1937, which prohibits bird-attracting establishments like slaughterhouses and garbage dumps within 10 km of airports. The recent Ahmedabad crash, which claimed 274 lives, has reignited calls for strict enforcement of aviation safety norms nationwide.
Stay tuned for updates on aviation safety initiatives across India.
