Home / Environment / Airport Bird Strikes Skyrocket 3.5x Amidst Waste Dumping Woes
Airport Bird Strikes Skyrocket 3.5x Amidst Waste Dumping Woes
22 Sep
Summary
- Bird strikes near IGI Airport increased 3.5 times in 2025-2026.
- Waste dumping sites and illegal meat shops fuel bird activity.
- Animal relocation and waste management ordered by aviation panel.
Bird strike incidents around Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) have dramatically increased, by approximately 3.5 times in 2025 and 2026. An aviation safety panel identified multiple waste-dumping sites, unauthorized meat shops, and bird-feeding locations as primary contributors to this surge.
During a review meeting, Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) highlighted concerns about waste disposal and illegal meat vending along aircraft approach paths. Peafowl, monkeys, and dogs were observed posing threats to operations and passengers. The committee has directed swift action for animal relocation.
Key problem areas include Rangpuri Pahadi, with stagnant sewage and waste dumping, and an illegal chicken market in RK Puram. Construction debris near Dwarka runways also contributes to increased bird and rodent activity. Pigeon feeding in Dwarka Sector 8 was also flagged.
Government agencies and civic bodies have been instructed to clear waste, preserve ecological integrity, and increase enforcement against illegal dumping. DIAL is exploring models for meat waste collection to mitigate risks around the airport.
