The Indian Air Force (IAF) station at Lohegaon in Pune is contemplating filing police complaints against individuals found dumping garbage near the airbase, as a surge in bird activity poses significant risks to flight safety.
Growing Concerns Over Waste Dumping
Senior officers at the strategically important installation stated that this consideration follows repeated complaints and monitoring that revealed rampant dumping of waste in open plots and roadside areas surrounding the base. A senior IAF officer informed the Times of India that the station plans to expand its CCTV coverage along the perimeter to identify offenders.
"Once identified, we plan to file police complaints against those responsible. Garbage dumping is drawing birds closer to operational areas and impacting flight safety, leaving us with no choice but to consider strict action," the officer said. He noted that people often arrive on two-wheelers and dump waste just outside the airbase boundary walls, calling it a dangerous practice.
Bird Strike Hazards
Bird strikes remain a major aviation hazard worldwide. IAF officers reported several recent bird-hit incidents involving aircraft operating from Lohegaon, raising serious operational concerns. "If a large bird collides with an aircraft during takeoff or landing, it can be catastrophic," the officer added. The Lohegaon airbase houses two Sukhoi fighter squadrons under the South Western Air Command and shares its runway with Pune airport, making the issue critical for both military and civilian aviation.
Municipal Actions and Public Cooperation
Earlier, Pune municipal commissioner Naval Kishore Ram inspected areas around the airbase with civic officials and directed owners of vacant plots to keep them garbage-free. He warned of possible seizure of plots for non-compliance. "Two garbage processing plants are dysfunctional in the area. Hence, there has been some issue in garbage disposal over the last few weeks. We have initiated the work. Once it is completed, the issue will be resolved," Ram told TOI on Wednesday.
Civic officials stressed that apart from enforcement, public cooperation is essential. "Citizens must understand that dumping garbage near the airbase is not just a cleanliness issue but a serious safety risk," Ram said.
Resident Perspectives
Residents in the area said illegal dumping has become routine. "People dump waste late at night, and by morning it attracts dogs and birds. Authorities need to act strictly now," said resident Vishal Shinde. Priyanka Kale, another resident, emphasized the need for behavioral change. "People speak about cleanliness but continue to litter. Given the proximity of the airport and airbase, this negligence puts thousands of passengers and defence personnel at risk," she remarked.
