September 20, 2023 – Dehradun Airport faces an escalating threat of bird strikes during take-off and landing operations. After six months of research, the Wildlife Institute has concluded that the dumping zones in Kansaro and Keshavpuri Basti areas pose a significant risk as birds from these areas frequently fly at considerable altitudes, potentially colliding with aircraft and leading to major accidents.
Both of these locations fall within the flight path of the aircraft during landing and takeoff. Local authorities have proposed relocating the dumping zones to mitigate the risk. Dehradun Airport is surrounded by dense forests on three sides, with Rajaji National Park in close proximity, and the presence of dumping zones in the area exacerbates the problem.
These dumping zones serve as disposal sites for deceased animals, which can attract scavenger birds to the area. In addition, hunters often abandon their prey inside the forest, leading to a significant presence of large birds of prey in the vicinity. If these birds collide with aircraft, it can lead to potentially disastrous consequences.
The airport authorities are deeply concerned about this issue. The airport has raised this matter multiple times in meetings of the Environmental Committee. The district administration has also been informed of the situation, but the status quo remains unchanged.
The Most Dangerous Areas Identified:
- The dumping zone near Keshavpuri Basti by the banks of the Song River in Doiwala.
- The Kansaro Range area in Rajaji National Park.
Bird Deterrent Devices Being Considered
In light of the bird strike incidents at the airport, during operational hours, ten to twelve personnel use zone guns and bird laser guns to emit loud noises and reflective ribbons to deter birds. Now, the airport administration is in the process of acquiring a new device. This device will emit various sounds simultaneously to disperse the birds effectively.
The Wildlife Institute, after six months of study, has identified these two locations as the ones with the highest bird movement. Various measures are being taken to reduce the risk of bird strikes. The acquisition of the new device is one of the steps to address this concern.
Prabhakar Mishra, Airport Director, Dehradun Airport.