The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) has expressed significant concerns regarding the ecological and aviation risks associated with the proposed Shree Jagannath International Airport in Puri, Odisha. Following the Odisha government's receipt of in-principle clearance for the diversion of 27.887 hectares of forest land, the WII's inspection revealed that the airport site in Sipasarubali lies only 16 km from Chilika Lake, a recognized Ramsar site crucial for migratory birds. The WII highlighted the potential for increased bird-aircraft collisions due to the airport's proximity to major migratory corridors along the Central Asian Flyway. Additionally, the project would necessitate the felling of over 13,500 trees, which currently provide a natural barrier against coastal hazards. The report also noted that the site is located within a 200-meter distance from the coastline, making it susceptible to tidal influences and extreme weather events. The WII emphasized the need for comprehensive ecological studies and legally binding mitigation measures to address potential impacts on local wildlife, including Irrawaddy dolphins and Olive Ridley turtles. Given the lack of airports near major wetlands in India, the Puri project could set a concerning precedent for future developments. WII's recommendations include redesigning runway orientations, installing bird detection systems, and adopting sustainable coastal management practices to minimize ecological disruption.