Authorities in Varanasi have announced strict security and sanitation measures ahead of the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Aerial Display-2026 at Namo Ghat, including a temporary ban on the sale and slaughter of meat, fish and poultry within a 20-30 km radius of the venue to minimise the risk of bird strikes.
The restrictions will come into effect on October 19 and remain in place until the conclusion of the event, which is being organised to mark the 94th anniversary of the Indian Air Force.
The Uttar Pradesh government has designated the air show as a “state event”, with the main aerial displays scheduled for October 22, 23 and 25. October 26 has been kept as a standby day.
Speaking to ANI, Sandeep Srivastava, Public Relations Officer of the Varanasi Municipal Corporation, said restrictions on meat and fish businesses were among the key measures being implemented to ensure aircraft safety.
“The most important decision taken is that within the 30-kilometer aerial zone, shops selling meat, fish, or poultry won’t be allowed to sell or slaughter anything there,” he said.
Municipal Commissioner Himanshu Nagpal said extensive administrative, security and sanitation arrangements were underway to ensure the smooth and safe conduct of the event.
“This aerial display by the Indian Air Force is a highly prestigious and grand event for Varanasi. It is being organized as a ‘state event.’ The Municipal Corporation is making elaborate arrangements for cleanliness at Namo Ghat and surrounding areas, barricading the Ganga, closing meat shops to prevent bird strikes, and providing mobile toilets for devotees, ensuring this event is completely safe and historic,” Nagpal said.
He added that the Municipal Corporation would undertake a special cleanliness drive from October 20 to 26 to control bird activity in and around the venue, reducing the risk of bird strikes during the aerial demonstrations.
Authorities are also strengthening safety measures along the Ganga ghats in anticipation of large crowds gathering to watch the air show.
Barricades and warning signs are being installed near deep-water areas of the Ganga to prevent accidents. Additional barriers will be placed along sensitive access routes connecting the ghats to the river to restrict visitors from entering dangerous stretches.
Officials said adequate mobile toilet facilities would also be installed at Namo Ghat and surrounding areas, with regular cleaning arrangements to maintain sanitation throughout the event.
The measures are aimed at ensuring public safety, maintaining cleanliness and minimising risks to aircraft during the IAF’s aerial display.
(ANI Inputs)
