LAHORE:
The Punjab Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has accelerated its aerial surveillance and digital‑mapping operations in and around Lahore, and other sensitive zones, to prevent bird‑related aviation hazards.
EPA officials say the agency’s Aerial Surveillance Force is conducting reconnaissance flights over key locations, including Lahore Airport, to identify bird activity and nesting sites. They are using advanced technology to geo‑tag nests and bird cages on digital maps, enabling swift removal. The e‑mapping process is expected to conclude within two days.
According to the EPA’s latest “Dening Report,” a targeted operation near Mehfooz Shaheed Garrison, close to Harbanspura Ring Road, removed 20 kite nests and 30 crow nests. Pigeon cages were also dismantled at five different locations, including Baden Road and Gulshan Park.
Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb warned that bird nests pose a serious threat to aircraft and urged the public to refrain from feeding birds in open spaces or on rooftops.
The district administration has launched inspections of marriage halls, restaurants, and meat shops. In Nishat Colony and Arbab Market, four shopkeepers were fined, and their premises sealed for maintaining open‑air poultry and meat stalls.
Municipal teams have cleared unnecessary branches and garbage from Khurshid Alam Road, Javed Cheema Chowk, and Zarar Shaheed Road, eliminating potential nesting grounds.
In a separate action, the provincial wildlife department removed 15 kite nests and 20 crow nests from PAF Golf Club. The operation’s next phase is now moving from Mehfooz Garrison toward the Harbanspura Ring Road.
EPA has appealed to the public to avoid throwing leftover meat or sacrificial offerings in open areas, warning that such practices attract birds and increase air‑accident risk. Strict action will be taken against violators.
