Since 2018, Maharashtra Airport Development Company Limited (MIL) has identified 181 buildings as potential threats to aircraft operations near Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport during aeronautical obstacle limitation surface (OLS) surveys. Despite the clear safety concerns, no measures have been taken to reduce the excess height or remove rooftop obstructions from these structures.
MIL began conducting these surveys after being assigned the responsibility by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), which previously managed OLS assessments. The change followed rising concerns about tall buildings obstructing the flight path, particularly on the Chinchbhuwan side of the runway, from where most aircraft land at the airport.
One notable case involves the “Prozone Palm” building, located just 300 meters from the airport. The structure has drawn attention due to its height and location, and the matter is currently under judicial review. Notices have also been served to other buildings in localities such as Sonegaon Road, Takli Sim, Pannase Layout, Jaitala, Hingna, Trimurti Nagar, Isasani, Digdoh, and Shivan village. However, authorities have yet to enforce corrective actions.
As per the Aircraft Rules of 1994 and the Aircraft Act of 1934, the Ministry of Civil Aviation issues safeguarding circulars like GSR 751(P), directing the regulation of tall structures around airports. The AAI uses a colour-coded zoning system for granting No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for building heights, aimed at protecting flight safety.
Despite these regulatory frameworks and the three OLS surveys conducted over the past nine years, the identified buildings remain untouched. Safety experts have raised concerns over the lack of enforcement, warning that the unchecked presence of these structures poses a continued risk to aviation operations in Nagpur.
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