Varanasi IAF Air Show: Meat, Fish Shops to Close Near Namo Ghat
To prevent bird hits during the IAF Aerial Display 2026, meat and fish shops within 30km of Namo Ghat in Varanasi will be closed.
In a massive security and safety move ahead of the upcoming IAF Aerial Display-2026, authorities in Varanasi have announced a strict ban on the sale and slaughter of meat and fish. This measure is designed to prevent bird hits, which pose a significant risk to fighter jets performing during the high-stakes air show at Namo Ghat.
The ban will extend across a massive 20 to 30-kilometer radius around the venue, starting from October 19th and continuing until the conclusion of the event. This decision aims to ensure that the skies remain clear of birds attracted to meat and poultry products, thereby safeguarding the pilots and the aircraft.
Strict Restrictions to Ensure Flight Safety
Sandeep Srivastava, the Public Relations Officer for the Varanasi Municipal Corporation, confirmed the sweeping restrictions. He stated that within the designated 30-kilometer aerial zone, no shops selling meat, fish, or poultry will be permitted to operate or conduct any slaughtering activities.
The Uttar Pradesh state government has elevated this celebration to a "state event," highlighting its prestige and importance. The main aerial displays are scheduled to take place on October 22nd, 23rd, and 25th, with October 26th kept as a standby day in case of weather shifts.
Extensive Sanitation and Crowd Management
Beyond flight safety, the Municipal Corporation is rolling out a comprehensive plan to manage the massive crowds expected at the Ganga Ghats. Municipal Commissioner Himanshu Nagpal emphasized that the goal is to make this a safe and historic event for the city.
Key administrative measures include:
- Special Cleanliness Drive: A massive sanitation operation will be conducted between October 20th and 26th to control bird activity in the city and around the venue.
- River Safety: To prevent accidents in the Ganga River, authorities are installing barricades and warning signs in deep-water areas. Sensitive routes leading to the river will also be blocked to keep visitors away from dangerous depths.
- Public Amenities: A significant number of mobile toilets will be deployed at and around Namo Ghat, with regular cleaning schedules to maintain hygiene for the visiting devotees and tourists.
As Varanasi prepares to host this grand spectacle of the Indian Air Force, the combination of strict sanitation, food restrictions, and water safety measures marks one of the most organized large-scale events in the city's recent history.