Punjab Declares No Bird Zones Around Lahore Airports to Boost Air Safety
LAHORE: In a major step toward improving aviation safety, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has launched a strategic initiative to declare areas surrounding Lahore’s airports as “No Bird Zones.” The move aims to reduce the risk of bird strikes—a serious hazard for aircraft—by tightening regulations and enhancing monitoring near flight paths.
This high-priority program involves collaboration between the district administration, the Wildlife Department, and the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), all working together to create safer airspace around airports.
Key Measures Under the No Bird Zone Initiative
To effectively implement this aviation safety plan, the Punjab government has introduced several concrete measures:
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Closure of unauthorized poultry farms and slaughterhouses near airport zones
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Ban on open garbage dumping; sealed waste containers are now mandatory
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Strict regulations on bakeries, tanneries, and industrial units without proper environmental controls
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Immediate crackdown on bird-attracting locations, as per the Punjab Wildlife Act
In addition, aerial “safety buffers” or ring-fencing zones will be established to divert bird activity away from active flight paths.
Wildlife Force to Monitor High-Risk Zones
To further strengthen the enforcement process, Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb has been tasked with launching Punjab’s first dedicated Wildlife Force. This new unit will operate alongside Wildlife Rangers to monitor critical areas and ensure compliance.
The Wildlife Department has already issued instructions for on-ground enforcement, with violators facing strict penalties—including fines, legal action, and possible arrest.
Aligning with International Aviation Safety Standards
Speaking on the importance of the initiative, Minister Aurangzeb stated:
“Creating No Bird Zones near airports is a globally recognized safety practice. We are now bringing this international standard to Punjab to ensure safer skies and reduce the risk of bird strikes.”
Why Bird Strike Prevention Matters
Bird strikes pose a serious threat to flight safety, particularly during takeoff and landing. By reducing bird activity near airports, this initiative aims to protect passengers, crew, and aircraft, while also improving the overall aviation infrastructure of Punjab.
What’s Next?
As implementation moves forward, authorities plan to scale this model to other major airports in Punjab. With public safety and environmental responsibility at the heart of the policy, this initiative sets a new benchmark for regional aviation management.
