The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has been alerted to unauthorized open-air animal slaughter taking place in Ulwe, a practice that could pose a significant risk to aviation safety at the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA). A formal complaint regarding the issue has been filed, prompting further investigation by the authorities.
The concern was highlighted by B.N. Kumar, director of NatConnect Foundation, who pointed out that the unregulated sale of goat and chicken meat in the airport's vicinity was in violation of aviation safety regulations. The complaint was submitted on February 24 and again on March 6, following which it was forwarded to the Directorate of Air Safety for further action.
It has been emphasized that aviation safety norms strictly prohibit animal slaughter within a 10 km radius of any airport to reduce the risk of bird strikes. However, it has been observed that illegal meat trading continues in Ulwe, located just 3 km from NMIA’s runway. The issue was also raised through the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) grievance portal and was subsequently referred to A.X. Joseph, Director of Air Safety at DGCA, for assessment.
The matter is being reviewed as DGCA, in coordination with CIDCO and other relevant authorities, is conducting a broader evaluation of safety concerns at NMIA. Following the establishment of the Aerodrome Environment Management Committee (AEMC), stricter enforcement of aviation and environmental safety regulations has been mandated. The Maharashtra government’s Government Resolution (GR) on AEMC has outlined clear guidelines for ensuring compliance with these regulations.
A structured grievance redressal system under AEMC has been suggested by Kumar, who has proposed that an independent authority, such as a retired Supreme Court or High Court judge, be appointed to oversee the committee. It has been noted that, at present, CIDCO’s Managing Director heads the committee, with the city planning department responsible for implementing environmental regulations.
Concerns over public health hazards have also been raised by local representatives. It has been reported that Ulwe city NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) president Santosh Kate has reached out to CIDCO, the Raigad district collector, and other officials, citing potential health risks such as bird flu and the GBS virus. Additionally, activist Karan Chawla has taken the matter to the Chief Minister’s office, prompting further involvement from senior government officials.
As the complaint is under review, DGCA is expected to assess adherence to safety norms and take necessary action to ensure that aviation safety at NMIA remains uncompromised.
Share
Tweet
