Pakistan: The Punjab government has imposed a 30-day ban on several activities in and around airports and Pakistan Air Force (PAF) installations across the province, citing serious risks to aviation safety.
According to a notification issued by the Home Department on May 19, authorities acted under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure after receiving reports that certain practices could endanger flight operations and aviation assets. The restriction applies to areas within a 13-kilometre radius of the funnel zones of all commercial airports and PAF bases in the province.
The banned activities include pigeon homing, the use of laser lights by hotels, malls, and commercial outlets, and the throwing of meat (sadqa) in open spaces or rooftops intended to feed birds of prey. Officials warned that these practices attract birds in large numbers, increasing the risk of bird strikes, which can severely impact aircraft safety during takeoff and landing.
The Home Department stated that there were sufficient grounds for immediate preventive action to maintain public safety, protect lives and property, and ensure uninterrupted aviation operations. The order has been enforced with immediate effect and will remain in place for 30 days.
Authorities also noted that meat disposal near airport zones, particularly during Eidul Azha, has historically contributed to heightened bird activity, prompting renewed awareness campaigns in recent years to mitigate aviation hazards.