A comprehensive meeting of the Aerospace Safety Section was held under the chairmanship of Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) Leh, Sonam Nurboo (JKAS), at the Mini Conference Hall of the DC Office, Leh, on November 26.

The meeting began with a detailed presentation by Wing Commander S. Gokula Krishnan, Flight Safety Officer, Air Officer Commanding (AOC) 21 Wing, Air Force Station Leh. He highlighted key safety concerns, including garbage accumulation near the airport, runway incursions caused by stray dogs, and measures to reduce bird strikes. He also outlined pending issues such as waste management, updating the Disabled Aircraft Recovery Plan (DARP), identification of obstructions, and new agenda points, including unauthorized parking of vehicles, photography in the funnel approach area, and construction of high-rise buildings near the airfield.

Wg Cdr Krishnan emphasized that bird strikes have become one of the most serious threats to safe aircraft operations. He noted that increased bird activity near the airfield is closely linked to open garbage dumps and improper waste disposal practices around airport premises. He urged immediate action to eliminate open dumping sites to minimize bird movement in the aerospace zone. Another concern highlighted was the rising population of stray dogs within airport premises, which has led to repeated runway incursions.

He requested the district administration to take necessary measures to address garbage-related issues, runway safety, and other critical matters. He also urged representatives of SpiceJet and Air India to update their respective safety and operational plans.

Addressing the meeting, ADDC Leh Sonam Nurboo instructed departmental officers to document the issues affecting the airfield within their respective sectors and ensure timely resolution. He emphasized the importance of regular Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) meetings and close coordination among all stakeholders.

The meeting continued under the supervision of Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Leh, Ghulam Mohammad (JKAS), who assured that all concerns would be addressed and a separate follow-up meeting would be convened soon to review progress.

During discussions, officials highlighted the importance of installing bird spikes on airport buildings, conducting regular cleanliness drives under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, and ensuring coordinated inter-departmental action to maintain a clean and hazard-free environment.