Birds love to hover over runway of City airport

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Bhubaneswar, June 9: One may guess the objective of an aircraft hovering over Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) when it is trying to land. A flight of birds can also be sighted simultaneously alighting close to the runway, thanks to the food and water sources available for the winged creatures at the airport.
Apparently, an open drainage flowing adjacent to the BPIA boundary wall along Jagamara road, has compounded bird-hit menace for airline operators.
According to ornithologist Gahar Abedin, “Birds always look for water and food. So the flowing or stagnant water in the drains attract them. The drain is also a source of food for the birds.”
Wild shrubs have grown around the temporary drain. The boundary wall of the airport is also perilously close to the drain and may crumble any time.
Besides the bird menace, the collapse of the wall may disrupt the security of the airport. The upcoming monsoon may further aggravate the problem of rodents and insects. Moreover, if the drain overflows it may cause water-logging.
Though the airport officials claim they have done adequate pre-monsoon checks they admit that the area is still a challenge for them.
When contacted, a top AAI official said, “We have done several pre-monsoon checks by various departments and will conduct several progress meetings to assess the monsoon situation. That apart, the airport will take measures to maintain hygienic environment. The grass will be scythed and insecticide will be sprayed. However, I admit this drainage is a challenge.”
Interestingly, the Works Department which maintains the drainage system at Jagamara Road does not seem to take the responsibility. Works Department secretary NK Pradhan parried a question saying, “I am not responsible for this. You can contact the Chief Engineer”.
The Chief Engineer, however, did not respond. Several top officials of the department declined to give an explanation.
When contacted, airport director Suresh Chandra Hota promised to take up the matter with the works department. “The drainage has to be covered to prevent birds coming anywhere near. We will also direct the works department accordingly. Meanwhile, as a stopgap arrangement, insecticide will be sprayed in the area and other required measures will be taken to maintain cleanliness,” said Hota. JOSE K JOSEPH, OP