Patna: Jayprakash Narayan International Airport in Patna has installed reflective tapes and ribbons around the premises to deter birds after a rise in bird-hit incidents this year, with black kites emerging as a major concern for aircraft safety.Airport director Chandra Pratap Dwivedi said the reflective material had been placed at selected locations to scare birds away from areas used by aircraft. “Reflective tapes and ribbons have been installed at strategic locations to scare the birds. It will not disrupt flight operations,” he told TOI on Saturday.The measure has been taken after the airport recorded a significant number of bird-hit incidents this year. According to airport data, 21 bird-hit incidents were reported between Jan and Aug this year, compared with nine during the corresponding period last year. The increase has prompted the airport administration to strengthen its bird-control measures.Black kites are considered one of the biggest threats because of their presence around the airport and their movement across aircraft approach and departure paths. A bird strike involving a larger bird can damage an aircraft, particularly when it occurs during take-off or landing.The environment, forest and climate change department has also begun a survey around the airport to understand the bird population and its movement. The divisional forest officer is assessing the species found in the area, their numbers, movement patterns and locations that attract them. The findings are expected to help airport authorities identify more effective ways of keeping birds away from aircraft operating zones.Officials are also examining bird-attracting sources outside the airport boundary. Meat and fish shops around Chitkohra roundabout and the garbage transfer station at Gardanibagh have been identified as key areas of concern. Food waste and discarded material from these locations provide an easy source of food for birds and can draw black kites towards the airport.The open Gardanibagh garbage transfer station is particularly significant as it is located close to the airport. Airport authorities have previously raised concerns about waste accumulation in the area because of its potential to attract birds. The civic body has been asked to ensure proper disposal of waste and regulate activities that could increase bird activity around the airport.
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