An accident was reported when an explosive used to dispel a flock of birds that were flying above the Katunayake Airport had fallen back into the vehicle that had transported it. 

It is reported that officers of the Animal and Bird Hazard Control Division of the Katunayake Airport received information around 11.45 am today that a flock of birds was flying above the airport runway posing a risk to flights.

Three officers in a double cab had fired explosives, similar to skyrockets, to dispel the birds from the airstrip, during which one explosive failed to explode and fell into the vehicle. 

The accident resulted in the other explosives in the vehicle exploding causing a fire. However, fire engines at the airport had arrived at the scene and doused the fire. 

The three officers of the Animal and Bird Hazard Control Division of the Katunayake Airport who were injured in the incident have been admitted to the Negombo Hospital. 

The double cab used in the incident is reported to have been damaged in the accident. (Newswire)

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