Navi Mumbai Airport: DGCA Orders Shutdown of Illegal Meat Trade Near Runway Over Aviation Safety, Bird Strike Risk

Navi Mumbai, 3rd May 2025: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has ordered an immediate halt to all animal slaughter and meat sales within a 10 km radius of the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), following complaints from environmentalists about illegal activities just 3 km from the runway. The move comes after activists, including NatConnect Foundation director B N Kumar, highlighted the violation of aviation safety regulations and the increased risk of bird strikes due to open meat trading in Ulwe’s Sector 19.

DGCA regulations and a Maharashtra State Government resolution strictly prohibit animal slaughter, meat shops, and the dumping of waste within 10 km of any airport to minimize the risk of birds such as crows and kites being attracted to the area, which can endanger aircraft during takeoff and landing. Despite these rules, activists observed ongoing illegal slaughter and unsanitary meat sales, prompting formal complaints to the Ministry of Civil Aviation and local authorities.

The Aerodrome Environment Management Committee (AEMC), established to enforce these norms, has been directed to ensure strict compliance and review environmental safety measures regularly. The DGCA’s action follows recent concerns over public health risks, including bird flu outbreaks in nearby areas, further emphasising the need for strict hygiene and safety enforcement around the NMIA.

Authorities are now expected to intensify surveillance and enforcement to protect aviation operations and public health in the airport’s vicinity.