Chief Secretary Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Nadeem Aslam Chaudhary, has emphasized the need for stringent measures to mitigate the risks posed by birds, kite flying, and high laser beams near airports. Presiding over a meeting of the Bird Hazard Control Committee, the Chief Secretary highlighted the critical importance of these measures in ensuring the safety of both airports and human lives. During the meeting, it was decided to launch a mass awareness campaign to educate the public about the proper disposal of animal offal and waste during Eid ul Azha. The campaign aims to ensure that waste is disposed of at designated places, thereby reducing the attraction of birds near airports. The Chief Secretary stressed that such practices are crucial in protecting aviation operations from bird-related hazards. Additionally, a ban on the use of high laser beams was imposed in Peshawar, Mardan, Nowshera, and Kohat. Special directives were issued for thorough cleaning of areas surrounding airports during Eid ul Azha, with a focus on the proper disposal of animal waste.

These steps are part of a broader strategy to enhance airport safety during the festive period. The meeting, attended by Air Vice Marshal Sajjad Nouri, Additional Chief Secretaries, Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, and other key officials from the Air Force, Police, and Civil Aviation, underscored the severe risks posed by birds, kite flying, and laser beams to aircraft. Chief Secretary Chaudhary noted that birds flying near airports, aerial firing, and kite flying could lead to aviation accidents, resulting in significant damage to the national treasury. He directed relevant authorities to take strict action against those engaging in these hazardous activities around airports. Air Vice Marshal Sajjad Nouri highlighted that bird collisions with aircraft during takeoff are a frequent issue, causing considerable damage to planes. He called for enhanced measures to tackle this persistent problem, stressing the need for coordinated efforts among all stakeholders. The Chief Secretary’s directives mark a proactive approach to aviation safety, aiming to mitigate risks and ensure safe air travel in the region.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan