In a bold move to improve passenger safety and reduce flight disruptions, the Punjab government has launched a city-wide operation to establish “No Bird Zones” around Lahore Airport. The effort comes after a surge in bird strike incidents, particularly during take-off and landing, two of the most critical moments in air travel.
Following direct instructions from Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, key areas near the airport have now been classified as high-alert zones for bird activity. These include Eastern Bypass, Manawan, PKLI, Ichhra, and Chah Miran. Officials from the district administration,the Punjab Wildlife Department, and the Environment Protection Agency are now actively monitoring these locations.
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Wildlife Force Formed and Rules Enforced
To ensure effective implementation, the Punjab government appointed Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb to lead the province’s first dedicated Wildlife Force. Her team now actively enforces the new aviation safety measures and ensures full compliance with the updated protocols.
Strict controls are now in place for slaughterhouses, bakeries, and poultry farms operating near the airport. These businesses are no longer allowed to dump waste in open areas or feed birds in public. Open garbage bins attract large bird flocks, increasing the risk of strikes, so sealed containers are now mandatory.
Waste disposal practices are under tight scrutiny. Anyone found violating the new regulations will face legal consequences under the Punjab Wildlife Act. The Wildlife Force has been instructed to conduct routine inspections and take immediate action against non-compliance.
The government’s strategy includes more than just enforcement. It aims to raise public awareness and encourage responsible behavior among residents and business owners alike. By fostering a culture of environmental accountability, officials hope to make lasting improvements in flight safety.
This initiative is part of a larger plan to align Pakistan’s aviation standards with global benchmarks. It follows earlier environmental actions such as the closure of outdated brick kilns and the introduction of zigzag technology to control air pollution.
With these preventive steps, the Punjab government is showing a serious commitment to making the skies safer for both passengers and pilots. Reducing bird hazards near Lahore Airport is not just a short-term fix—it’s a step toward sustainable airspace management.
