Patna airport has installed reflective tapes and ribbons around its premises after recording 21 bird-hit incidents between January and August, more than double the nine reported during the same period last year. Airport authorities have identified black kites as a significant risk to aircraft operating along approach and departure paths.
Jayprakash Narayan International Airport director Chandra Pratap Dwivedi said the reflective material had been placed at selected locations to deter birds from areas used by aircraft. “Reflective tapes and ribbons have been installed at strategic locations to scare the birds. It will not disrupt flight operations,” he told the Times of India.
The airport’s data shows that bird-hit incidents rose from nine in the January-August period last year to 21 this year. The increase has prompted the administration to strengthen its bird-control measures around the airport, where bird movement is a safety concern particularly during aircraft take-off and landing.
Black kites are considered among the biggest threats because they are present around the airport and can move across aircraft approach and departure routes. A collision with a larger bird can damage an aircraft, especially when it occurs during the critical phases of take-off or landing.
The environment, forest and climate change department has begun a survey around the airport to assess the bird population and its movement. The divisional forest officer is examining the species found in the area, their numbers, movement patterns and locations that attract them. The findings are expected to help airport officials identify more effective ways to keep birds away from aircraft operating zones.
The response extends beyond the airport boundary. Officials are examining food and waste sources that may be attracting birds towards the facility. Meat and fish shops around Chitkohra roundabout and the open garbage transfer station at Gardanibagh have been identified as areas of concern.
Food waste and discarded material at these locations can provide an accessible food source for birds, including black kites. The Gardanibagh transfer station is considered particularly significant because of its proximity to the airport. Airport authorities have previously raised concerns about waste accumulation in the area and its potential to increase bird activity.
The civic body has been asked to ensure proper disposal of waste and regulate activities that could attract birds around the airport. The airport’s immediate intervention is therefore being accompanied by a survey of bird movement and measures targeting waste and commercial activity outside the airport boundary.
