Kolhapur: District collector Dr Vijay Rathod has raised serious concerns over solid waste management and ongoing construction activities within the Kolhapur airport perimeter, stating that these issues are hindering the facility’s safety standards. He emphasized that such obstacles must not be allowed to persist and called for a collective effort to resolve them.
Shared Responsibility for Clean Airport Premises
Speaking at a one-day workshop held at the district collector’s office, Dr Rathod underscored that waste management is a shared responsibility, expressing hope that every household would conscientiously fulfill this duty to ensure the airport’s surroundings remain clear and safe. He urged residents and local bodies to cooperate in maintaining the area free from garbage and debris.
Mandatory NOC for Construction Activities
The workshop focused on the regularisation of construction activities and solid waste disposal within the airport zone. “For any current or future construction within the airport perimeter, it is mandatory to obtain a ‘no objection certificate’ (NOC) from the Airports Authority of India (AAI), the municipal corporation, and the respective gram panchayat,” Dr Rathod said. He further warned that no trash burning should take place in the vicinity of the airport, as it poses a significant risk to flight operations.
Identification of Unauthorized Structures
Zilla Parishad CEO Dr. Jasmine instructed Gram Panchayats to identify and document all unauthorized structures erected within the airport’s perimeter. Following this, Kolhapur Airport Director Anil Shinde provided a detailed briefing on the specific aviation regulations and safety protocols applicable to the surrounding areas. He highlighted the importance of adhering to height restrictions and maintaining clear zones for aircraft operations.
Officials and Stakeholders Attend Workshop
The meeting was attended by several high-ranking officials, including Resident Deputy Collector Gajanan Gurav, Sub-Divisional Officer Mosami Barde-Chougule, Tehsildar Swapnil Pawar, and Dilip Kadam, CEO of the Urban Development Authority. Participants also included local Tehsildars, Block Development Officers, Talathis, and representatives from CREDAI and various social organisations. The collective presence underscored the urgency of addressing these issues to ensure the airport’s safety and compliance with aviation standards.
