Protecting Our Skies This Eid-ul-Azha

Izmi Herlani

Eid-ul-Azha is one of the most sacred and spiritually significant occasions celebrated across Pakistan and the Muslim world. The festival embodies the values of sacrifice, devotion, compassion and unity, bringing families and communities together in an atmosphere of faith and gratitude. As Pakistani citizens fulfil the religious obligation of Qurbani with great enthusiasm and reverence, it is equally important to remember that the spirit of Eid also emphasizes responsibility towards society, public welfare and the environment. Among the major public safety concerns associated with Eid-ul-Azha is the improper disposal of sacrificial animal waste, including offal, blood, hides and carcasses. While often overlooked, this issue creates serious environmental and health hazards and, importantly, poses a significant threat to aviation safety. The accumulation of exposed animal remains in open areas attracts large concentrations of birds such as kites, crows, vultures and stray scavengers. Increased bird activity near populated areas, airfields and flying corridors can create dangerous conditions for aircraft operations, particularly during takeoff and landing phases.

For the Pakistan Air Force, which remains continuously engaged in safeguarding the aerial frontiers of the country, flight safety remains an uncompromising priority. PAF aircraft conduct operational missions, training sorties and readiness patrols around the clock to ensure the defence and security of Pakistan’s airspace. During Eid-ul-Azha, however, the sudden rise in bird populations around urban centres and flying zones substantially increases the risk of Bird Aircraft Strike Hazards, commonly referred to as bird strikes. A bird strike may appear insignificant to the general public, but in aviation operations it is considered one of the most serious flight safety hazards worldwide. Even a small bird colliding with an aircraft travelling at high speed can cause severe structural damage. In many cases, birds are ingested into aircraft engines, potentially resulting in engine malfunction, compressor damage or complete engine failure. Bird strikes can also damage windscreens, radomes, sensors and other critical systems essential for safe flight operations. The danger becomes even greater when birds move in flocks, especially around low-altitude flight paths used during takeoff and landing. Modern fighter aircraft operate at extremely high speeds and demand precise operational environments. A single bird strike at a critical phase of flight can endanger not only highly valuable national assets but also the lives of trained aircrew who remain committed to defending the nation under all circumstances.

Globally, aviation authorities and Air Forces treat bird hazards with utmost seriousness. Extensive measures are implemented around airbases and airports to control bird activity, maintain environmental cleanliness and minimize attractants that encourage bird congregation. However, during Eid-ul-Azha, the challenge becomes exceptionally complex due to the widespread disposal of sacrificial remains in open spaces, empty plots, roadsides, drains, canals and garbage dumps. In many localities, improper disposal practices unintentionally create feeding grounds for scavenging birds. The situation becomes particularly dangerous when such dumping occurs near airbases, aviation facilities or known flying routes. Birds drawn towards these sites can remain airborne in large numbers for extended periods, increasing the likelihood of hazardous encounters with aircraft. This is why public cooperation during Eid-ul-Azha is not merely a matter of civic cleanliness; it is directly linked with national safety and operational preparedness. Every citizen has an important role to play in reducing bird hazards and ensuring safer skies for aviation operations across the country.

Citizens are strongly encouraged to follow proper and hygienic disposal methods for sacrificial waste and animal remains. Local administrations and municipal authorities usually establish designated collection points and waste disposal mechanisms during Eid days. These arrangements should be utilized responsibly to prevent the accumulation of exposed waste in residential and open areas. The following precautionary measures can significantly help reduce bird hazards:

Dispose sacrificial remains only at officially designated collection points.

Avoid throwing animal waste in streets, rooftops, parks, canals, drains, empty plots or open garbage areas.

Place offal and waste material in sealed bags before disposal to minimize exposure.

Ensure timely cleaning and washing of slaughter areas after Qurbani.

Where municipal collection services are unavailable, bury animal remains at suitable designated locations.

Prevent the dumping of carcasses near airfields, highways and open grounds where birds are likely to gather.

Encourage neighbourhoods and local communities to adopt collective cleanliness measures during Eid festivities.

Religious teachings also emphasize cleanliness, moderation and consideration for the well-being of others. Maintaining hygiene and preventing public hazards are fully aligned with the spirit of Eid-ul-Azha and reflect responsible citizenship. By ensuring proper disposal of animal waste, citizens not only help preserve the environment and public health but also contribute towards protecting critical national defence capabilities. Pakistan Air Force has consistently maintained the highest standards of operational safety and professionalism in fulfilling its mission. From peacetime vigilance to operational readiness during national contingencies, PAF personnel remain committed to defending the country’s skies with unwavering dedication. Supporting flight safety efforts during Eid-ul-Azha is therefore a shared national obligation that requires cooperation between institutions, communities and individual citizens alike. As the nation celebrates Eid-ul-Azha in a spirit of sacrifice and unity, let us also demonstrate our collective commitment towards civic responsibility and national service. By disposing of sacrificial remains properly and encouraging others to do the same, every Pakistani can contribute towards safeguarding valuable national assets and ensuring the safety of those who tirelessly protect our skies. This Eid, let us honour not only the spirit of sacrifice but also the responsibility that comes with it. Clean surroundings, responsible conduct and public awareness can go a long way in ensuring safer skies for Pakistan and uninterrupted operational readiness for the defenders of the nation’s aerial frontiers.