Wildlife force deployed as no-bird zones enforced near Lahore airport

Lahore: To ensure the safety of passenger aircraft, areas surrounding the airport have been declared ‘No-Bird Zones’.

On the instructions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, a comprehensive and decisive grand operation has been launched to limit the presence of birds around Lahore Airport.

The purpose of this initiative is to reduce the risk of bird strikes during aircraft take-off, landing, and low-altitude flights.

The Chief Minister has directed the Lahore district administration, Wildlife Department, and Environmental Protection Authority to take immediate action. Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb has also been instructed to mobilize Punjab’s first Wildlife Force.

According to a notification issued by the Punjab government, several areas including Eastern Bypass, Manawan, Hospital Dahoriwala, PKLI, Chungi Amar Sidhu, Ichhra, and Chah Miran have been declared No-Bird Zones.

To ensure air safety in these zones, an aerial safety perimeter, known as "ring fencing," will be established. Strict action is being initiated against illegal slaughterhouses, poultry farms, and bakeries operating near the airport.

These entities will not be allowed to operate without adhering to environmental regulations. Tanneries and leather processing units will also face strict enforcement of environmental laws, and open washing of animal hides has been completely banned.

The notification makes it clear that no business or activity will be allowed near airports if it poses a risk of attracting birds. Open dumping of garbage is strictly prohibited, and only covered waste bins will be permitted.

Furthermore, feeding birds on rooftops, keeping or flying large numbers of pigeons, and offering bird feed at shrines or public places have also been banned to prevent bird gatherings.

The Punjab Wildlife Department has immediately ordered Wildlife Rangers to begin enforcement operations. Any violations will result in legal action under the Punjab Wildlife Act.