Unregulated meat trade near Navi Mumbai airport raises bird hit risk concerns

Navi Mumbai: Environmental activists and residents have expressed serious concerns about potential bird strikes at the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), as unregulated meat trade continues at Ulwe, approximately 3km from the runway. Activists reported to the Ministry of Civil Aviation that this activity contradicts the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) regulations, which prohibit animal slaughter within 10km of any airport. This regulation is specifically included in Maharashtra govt's resolution establishing the Aerodrome Environment Management Committee (AEMC) for NMIA, stated by NatConnect Foundation. NatConnect Director B N Kumar submitted a complaint via the PMO website and notified Cidco's unauthorised construction controller and vigilance officer. A Cidco official said that no such complaint was received yet.Activists, including Ulwe city NCP president Santosh Kate, have contacted Cidco, Raigad district collector, and other officials regarding unhygienic open meat trade at Sector 19, Ulwe, which is in close proximity to the airport. "It is also risky in these days of bird flu and GBS virus threats," Kate said.Activist Karan Chawla's complaint to the chief minister was forwarded to additional chief secretary (home) I S Chahal and urban sevelopment-II secretary Govind Raj, though no concrete action was observed. Chawla sought serious attention from authorities at the higher level. Kumar expressed disappointment at officials' inaction and advocated for establishing a proper slaughterhouse that adheres to safety and hygiene standards. "In my complaint, I suggested appointing a former Supreme Court or high court judge to lead the AEMC, ensuring independent oversight of violations," said Kumar, who emphasised the need for transparency, noting that Cidco's top brass should not head the AEMC due to allegations of environmental negligence.
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