New Delhi, Jan 21 (IANS) Ahead of the Republic Day flypast, the Indian Air Force Wednesday urged citizens not to throw eatables, garbage or dead animals in the open which may attract birds.

“In view of the flypast at heights varying from 60 to 500 metres and the associated flight safety concerns posed by birds, the IAF appeals to all citizens of Delhi and its neighbourhood to keep their areas clean and avoid throwing eatables, garbage, dead animals or carcasses in the open on all the days leading up to Jan 26,” an official statement said.

“Birds pose a serious threat to aircraft flying at low levels. Eatables thrown out in the open attract birds,” an air force said.

It also urged citizens to alert the nearest air force unit or police and report instances of carcasses seen in the open.