Stray Dog Spotted on Pune Airport Runway During Active Flight Operations
A serious safety breach occurred at Pune International Airport on Saturday evening when a stray dog was observed wandering freely on the active runway during ongoing flight operations. The incident, captured on video by a passenger, has raised significant concerns about aviation safety protocols at the facility.
Passenger Witnesses Disturbing Scene
The alarming event unfolded around 7:40 PM when Devesh Lokhandkar, a resident of Khamgaon traveling from Pune to Jalgaon aboard a FLY91 flight, noticed the canine roaming dangerously close to the runway. Lokhandkar documented the scene as his aircraft taxied from Gate No. 5A toward the runway for departure.
"While I was seated inside the aircraft, and the plane was taxiing towards the runway, I noticed a dog freely moving across the runway," Lokhandkar told reporters. "The sight left me surprised and concerned. It is shocking that such a lapse could occur at a major airport like Pune, especially considering recent aviation accidents."
The passenger emphasized the grave risks posed by such incidents: "This represents a serious safety concern, as the presence of an animal on the runway during taxiing, take-off, or landing can create significant hazards for aircraft operations and passenger safety. I am raising this issue as a responsible passenger so that authorities take notice and prevent recurrences."
Heightened Safety Concerns Following Recent Aviation Incidents
The runway intrusion comes at a particularly sensitive time for aviation safety in the region, following the recent Baramati plane crash that claimed the life of NCP chief Ajit Pawar. This incident has prompted renewed scrutiny of safety standards across Indian aviation facilities.
What makes this occurrence especially troubling is that Pune airport's runway is managed by the Indian Air Force, which typically enforces stringent security and safety guidelines. Animals straying onto active runways can create dangerous situations, as even small obstacles can lead to catastrophic accidents during critical phases of flight operations.
Municipal Response and Ongoing Challenges
In response to the incident, Dr. Sarika Funde-Bhosale, head of the Pune Municipal Corporation's veterinary department, confirmed that authorities have initiated measures to address the stray animal problem at the airport.
"We have started capturing strays on airport premises," Dr. Bhosale stated. "So far, 11 dogs have been captured from Pune airport and relocated to PMC's shelter home facility at Mundhwa, Keshav Nagar."
The municipal action follows Supreme Court directives mandating the removal of stray dogs from public institutions, including airports, railway stations, hospitals, and educational facilities. "We have been conducting regular drives to capture strays and developing appropriate shelter facilities," Dr. Bhosale added.
However, the PMC faces challenges from animal welfare advocates. "When we take strays away for sterilization, some volunteers, pet lovers, or dog feeders insist on their return, potentially leading to incidents like this at the airport," Dr. Bhosale explained. "Nevertheless, we will ensure such breaches do not happen again."
Calls for Immediate Action and Systemic Solutions
Frequent traveler K Shambhavi emphasized the urgency of addressing this safety issue: "The concerned authorities, including those responsible for runway maintenance and the Pune Municipal Corporation, must take such matters seriously. They should safely relocate strays to prevent any untoward incidents that could endanger lives."
Lokhandkar further highlighted the broader implications: "Leopard sightings are not uncommon either, and authorities must treat these matters with utmost seriousness. If stray numbers increase unchecked, they could cause major aviation accidents with devastating consequences."
Despite attempts to contact airport officials for comment, no response has been received regarding the specific security lapse and planned corrective measures. The incident underscores the need for enhanced coordination between airport authorities, municipal agencies, and wildlife control experts to ensure comprehensive safety protocols at critical aviation infrastructure.
