New Delhi: Meat shops and slaughterhouses will remain closed within a 10-kilometers radius of the Yelahanka Air Force Station for the aero show until February 20, the Bengaluru civic body said on Sunday. Brihat Bengaluru Maha Nagarpalike (BBMP) ordered a complete ban on the sale of meat, chicken, and fish from January 30 to February 20.
The order issued by BBMP read, "Closure of all meat/chicken/fish selling shops& slaughter houses within 10 kms radius of Air Force Station Yelahanka upto 20th Feb to be ensured."
However, the consumption of non-vegetarian food is now permitted throughout the performance as long as the animal waste is disposed of in a scientific manner.
The Palike said that prohibition was necessary to ensure the successful operation of Aero India 2023 since meat attracts birds, which raises the risk of bird strikes (collision of birds with aircraft).
"Consumption of non-vegetarian food may be permitted. However, stringent disposal measures of waste need to be ensured to mitigate bird activity in the vicinity of the airfield area towards safe conduct of Aero India 2023," the order said.
The Palike said that a lot of queries were received by Air Force authorities regarding the restrictions on the consumption of non-vegetarian food within the 10-kilometer radius of the Yelahanka air force station.
Last week, BBMP announced a ban on the consumption of non-vegetarian items around Yelahanka air force station but after facing backlash from the residents and sellers, BBMP lifted the ban and urged them to be mindful of the waste disposal.
The Aero India-2023 show is scheduled to be held at Air force station Yelahanka from February 13 to February 17. The official website of the aero show also went live, months before the event.
According to the Aero India website, a total of 731 exhibitors have registered -- 633 Indian and 98 foreign.
Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai on Tuesday said that Aero India will be the "biggest airshow" with the highest participation. "This is going to be the biggest airshow with the highest participation. There will be a large number of participation from delegates, aerospace and defence industry leaders, also companies," Bommai said.