On Monday evening, an Emirates flight originating from Dubai encountered a tragic incident while landing at Mumbai's airport, striking a flock of flamingos. The impact resulted in the loss of at least 40 flamingos in the Ghatkopar area of Mumbai. Fortunately, the flight, identified as EK 508, managed to land safely despite the collision.
The unfortunate occurrence unfolded near the Laxmi Nagar region of Pantnagar in Mumbai, prompting the cancellation of the return flight, EK 509, bound for Dubai. Passengers were left stranded at the airport as the aircraft underwent a comprehensive inspection, leading to the rescheduling of the Dubai-bound flight for Tuesday at 9 pm. In adherence to standard procedure, affected passengers have been provided accommodation by the airline.
The Maharashtra forest department promptly initiated an investigation into the incident, gathering samples from the site where the flamingo carcasses were discovered. Additionally, officials intend to interview the pilot of the Emirates aircraft to ascertain further details surrounding the bird strike.
SV Ramarao, the additional chief conservator of forest, emphasized the unprecedented nature of such an accident in the vicinity of the airport. It is suspected that the flock of flamingos was en route to the Thane flamingo sanctuary when the collision occurred. Environmental activists have speculated that the birds may have altered their flight path due to ongoing construction activities or environmental pollution.
Drawing attention to the ecological impact, environmentalist D Stalin of NGO Vanshakti raised concerns regarding construction activities near water bodies in Navi Mumbai. He called for a thorough investigation into the incident, suggesting that disturbances near wetlands may have contributed to the tragic event. Stalin emphasized the importance of preserving wetland habitats and urged authorities to address potential threats posed by construction activities and human encroachment in these sensitive areas.
