Delhi HC Seeks Centre Response After PIL Demands Closure Of Abattoirs Near IGI Airport

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday sought a response from the Central government regarding a Public Interest Litigation demanding the closure of abattoirs operating in close proximity to the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport.

The PIL, filed by a petitioner citing aviation safety concerns, argues that the presence of slaughterhouses near the airport contributes to an increased bird strike risk, thereby endangering flight operations.

PIL & Legal Grounds

The petitioner contends that open meat disposal and slaughterhouse activities attract scavenger birds, including kites and vultures, leading to a higher frequency of bird strikes, which pose a serious hazard to aircraft. The plea refers to existing regulations under the Aircraft Act, 1934, and the Environment Protection Act, 1986, emphasizing that such establishments should not operate in designated aerodrome safety zones.

In support of the argument, the petitioner has cited past incidents of bird strikes affecting flight safety and sought the court’s intervention to direct the authorities to shut down or relocate these abattoirs away from critical flight paths.

Court Proceedings & Government Stand

A division bench of the Delhi High Court, comprising Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice Subramonium Prasad, issued a notice to the Ministry of Civil Aviation, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the Airports Authority of India (AAI), and the Delhi government, seeking their responses on the matter.

The court has asked the respondents to clarify whether any action has been taken against illegal slaughterhouses operating near IGI Airport and whether adequate measures are in place to mitigate aviation risks posed by bird activity. The bench has scheduled the next hearing in the case for April 10, by which time the government agencies are expected to submit their replies.

Regulatory & Environmental Concerns

Under aviation safety norms, the presence of abattoirs within a 10-kilometer radius of an airport is considered a violation due to the risk of attracting birds that may collide with aircraft during critical phases of flight, such as takeoff and landing. The PIL argues that despite these regulations, enforcement has been lax, leading to continued operational risks at one of India’s busiest airports.

Environmental groups have also weighed in, highlighting that improper waste disposal from slaughterhouses not only attracts birds but also contributes to broader ecological and public health concerns. They emphasize the need for a sustainable approach to urban planning that balances industrial activities with safety and environmental norms.

Implications

The case is expected to have far-reaching consequences for urban planning and regulatory enforcement in airport zones across India. If the Delhi High Court rules in favor of the petitioner, it could lead to stricter enforcement of zoning laws and potentially impact similar establishments near other airports.

Legal experts note that the case underscores the necessity of aligning infrastructure development with aviation safety regulations, ensuring that public and environmental health considerations are integrated into urban policy decisions.

As the case progresses, all stakeholders—including government agencies, the aviation sector, and environmental bodies—will be closely monitoring the court’s directions and the Centre’s response.

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