Emirates aircraft hits flock of flamingos, 40 found dead in Mumbai’s Ghatkopar
Emirates aircraft hits flock of flamingos, 40 found dead in Mumbai's Ghatkopar
Flight safety concerns raised after flamingo deaths in Mumbai.
22 May 2024
By Payoshi Bisht
In a tragic incident yesterday, 36 flamingos were discovered dead in the suburbs of Ghatkopar in Mumbai. The birds, scattered across various areas, were reportedly struck by an incoming Emirates aircraft, resulting in significant damage to the aircraft itself. The collision occurred moments before the aircraft, flight EK-508, was due to land at the airport.
Despite the collision, the flight, which was carrying over 300 passengers, managed to make a safe landing around 9:15 pm, according to sources. Following the incident, the return flight bound for Dubai was cancelled, as confirmed by the plane tracking website Flightradar24, which provides real-time commercial flight tracking information.
The discovery of the flamingo carcasses was made by Forest Department officials after residents alerted a wildlife group about the dead birds in the Ghatkopar area. Upon investigation, officials found the area littered with mutilated remains of the birds, including broken pieces of wings, claws, and beaks.
Pawan Sharma, founder of the Resqink Association for Wildlife Welfare (RAWW), stated that the carcasses have been sent for autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. This tragic incident highlights the importance of wildlife conservation efforts and raises questions about aviation safety measures in areas prone to bird strikes.
