By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: In 2020-21, a decision was made to install 720 metres of approach lights at Patna Airport to enhance its Instrument Landing System (ILS Cat One). The plan included installing 360 metres of lights from the runway to Peer Ali Path near Patel Golambar and another 360 metres within Patna Zoo. This upgrade would have enabled aircraft to land in visibility as low as 200 metres, a significant improvement from the current requirement of 1,000 metres.
However, only the 360-metre stretch near Peer Ali Path has been completed, while the installation of the remaining 360 metres within Patna Zoo has been stalled for three years. Consequently, flight operations remain severely affected during low visibility conditions, with dense fog causing significant delays and cancellations.
Impact on Flight Operations
In December alone, 13 pairs of flights were temporarily suspended due to poor visibility caused by fog. If the zoo’s approach lights had been installed, aircraft operations could have been possible in visibility as low as 200 metres, potentially saving six to seven pairs of flights from being cancelled.
Concerns of the Environment Ministry
The Ministry of Environment has raised concerns about the impact of approach lights on the animals residing in Patna Zoo. The installation plan requires one light every 60 metres, with seven lights proposed within the zoo premises. Many of these lights would be located near enclosures housing large animals, raising fears of potential disruptions to the zoo’s ecosystem.
Currently, only one light has been installed near the Patel Golambar end of Peer Ali Path within the zoo campus. The remaining lights are planned in a straight line extending towards Zoo Gate Number Two. This has led to the Ministry withholding the necessary No Objection Certificate (NOC).
Efforts to Resolve the Stalemate
The state government and district administration are reportedly in discussions with the Environment Ministry to secure approval for the project. The delay in obtaining the NOC has stalled progress, leaving Patna Airport ill-equipped to handle fog-related disruptions.
This prolonged issue highlights the urgent need for a balanced solution that considers both aviation needs and environmental concerns, ensuring safer and more efficient air travel during adverse weather conditions.
