Acting on directions from the Airport Environment Committee to reduce the risk of bird strikes near Ahmedabad airport, the Amdavad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has banned the sale of non-vegetarian food at the Chamanpura fish market and in the Holi Chakla area of Asarwa ward.
On Thursday, AMC installed signboards at both locations announcing the ban. Officials said strict enforcement will begin soon, and action will be taken against violators.
According to civic officials, the temporary fish market in Asarwa was attracting a large number of birds, increasing the danger of bird hits involving aircraft operating from Ahmedabad airport. Authorities stepped up preventive measures after the Air India AI 171 crash on June 12, 2025.
Under aviation safety norms, activities that attract birds — such as open garbage dumping, unhygienic conditions and meat sales — are prohibited within a 10-km radius of an airport. AMC and police teams will jointly conduct drives to ensure the rules are followed.
Officials said that under Section 25(2) of the Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak, 2024, and Rule 91 of the Aircraft Rules, 1937, authorities have the power to restrict activities that may attract birds near airports. Violators may face up to three years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to Rs 10,000.
An AMC official said the ban applies to the Chamanpura fish market and the Holi Chakla stretch in Asarwa ward, covering the area between Civil Hospital and the old MLA quarters. Warning boards have already been put up, and strict action will soon follow against those violating the order.