LAHORE – July 2025
A Major Step to Boost Flight Safety
In a bold and proactive move, the Punjab government has announced the creation of No Bird Zones near Lahore Airport. This step is aimed at minimizing the risk of bird strikes, which are a major threat during takeoff and landing.
This new initiative aligns with directives from Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, who has ordered multiple departments to act quickly and decisively to address bird-related hazards in and around critical flight paths.
Aerial Safety Measures and Wildlife Force Deployment
To tackle the issue comprehensively, the government is introducing aerial safety barriers known as ring fencing. These will be placed in high-risk zones to discourage birds from entering flight corridors, reducing the risk of collisions.
Moreover, Punjab has launched its first-ever Wildlife Force, a special unit assigned to manage bird hazard operations. Supervised by Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, the team will focus on bird control, environmental protection, and climate policy enforcement.
Crackdown on Bird Attractants Near Airports
The initiative also includes strict enforcement against activities that attract birds near the airport. These regulations target both individuals and businesses that contribute to the problem. The following actions are now in effect:
- Shutdown of illegal slaughterhouses and poultry farms near flight zones
- Tight waste management rules for restaurants, bakeries, and food vendors
- Ban on open-air leather tanning, which draws scavenger birds
- Prohibition of grain scattering on rooftops, shrines, or public areas
- Restrictions on pigeon flying and breeding near airport zones
- Mandatory use of sealed waste bins to limit food exposure
- Complete ban on dumping garbage in open plots around airports
These steps aim to reduce the food sources that attract birds near flight paths and ensure compliance with aviation safety protocols.
No Bird Zones: Key Locations Identified
The government has identified several high-priority areas around Lahore where the bird control operations will begin immediately. These include:
- Lahore Eastern Bypass
- Manawan Hospital Dahoori Wala
- PKLI (Pakistan Kidney and Liver Institute)
- Chungi Amar Sidhu
- Ichhra
- Chah Miran
All of these zones fall under the Punjab Wildlife Act. Any violations—whether by individuals or businesses—will result in arrests, fines, or other strict penalties.
Why Bird Strike Prevention Matters
Bird strikes are a serious safety issue in aviation. According to data from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA), over 90% of bird strikes occur below 3,000 feet. This altitude range includes takeoff and landing, where aircraft are most vulnerable.
These strikes can cause severe engine or structural damage, putting passengers and crew at risk and leading to costly repairs and flight disruptions.
By declaring No Bird Zones, Punjab aims to protect both lives and aircraft—reinforcing its commitment to aviation safety.
Final Thoughts: A Model for Other Cities
This initiative not only enhances safety at Lahore’s busiest airport but also sets a strong example for other regions. The government’s comprehensive approach—combining legislation, enforcement, and public awareness—reflects a long-term vision for environmental and aviation safety.
With strict monitoring and interdepartmental cooperation in place, the No Bird Zones around Lahore Airport mark a critical step forward in safeguarding Pakistan’s air travel infrastructure.
