Helipad Controversy at Barkatullah University: Students, Alumni, and Locals Raise Environmental and Academic Concerns

Bhopal: A controversy has erupted at Barkatullah University (BU) in Bhopal over the proposed helicopter service by the state tourism department. Students, alumni, and local residents have strongly opposed the construction of a helipad on the university’s sports ground and the proposed helicopter operations. Concerns have been raised about the noise disrupting ongoing classes and the potential threat to local birdlife.

The issue came to the forefront after the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board requested space within the university for the “PM Shri Tourism Helicopter Service,” which was launched on 20 November 2025 to connect key religious, wildlife, and tourist sites across the state. The university community has objected to the plan, citing academic disruption and environmental hazards.

Noise and Academic Disruption
Alumni have pointed out that helicopters generate noise levels of 110–120 decibels, which could disturb classrooms, disrupt student learning, and pose risks to birds on campus. Former student leader Dharmendra Singh Gaur said, “This is not progress; it is a disaster for education.” He warned that continuous noise exposure could cause hearing damage, interfere with exams, and induce severe mental stress.

Violation of Government Regulations
Gaur also noted that the helipad violates a 2015 Madhya Pradesh government order (Letter No. 462/Mu.S./2015) and the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000. According to these rules, noise in educational institution zones should not exceed 50 decibels during the day and 40 decibels at night. Helicopter operations, producing 80–100 decibels of noise, significantly exceed these limits. He further stated that the noise and pollution could infringe on citizens’ fundamental right to life and personal liberty under Article 21 of the Constitution.

Environmental Concerns
An anonymous student highlighted that the helicopters could disturb nesting birds, reduce their breeding rates, and contribute to air pollution with CO₂ and nitrogen oxide emissions. Residents in the vicinity have expressed fears regarding health risks from the noise and exhaust.

The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board has stated that no final decision has been taken regarding the helipad on the university campus, and the proposal is still under review. University authorities have not yet issued any comments on the protests or ongoing controversy.