SROPNews,Nainital: Diwali was celebrated in Uttarakhand on November 1st, while the majority of the country observed the festival on October 31st. Festivities included the bursting of bombs and firecrackers, which, while enjoyed by many, are causing distress to local wildlife, particularly birds.
In many hilly cities of Uttarakhand, which are surrounded by forests, various rare bird species have been significantly affected by the noise of firecrackers. During this three-day period of Diwali celebrations, birds have largely disappeared from both urban and rural areas. Common species like Sparrows, Chir Pheasants, Brown Owls, Steppe Eagles, and Kingfishers, typically found in the mountains, have become elusive due to the overwhelming noise.
Impact of Firecracker Noise on Birds
Environmentalists, like Prof. Ajay Rawat from Nainital, emphasize that the intense noise from firecrackers can be fatal for birds. Birds possess an acute sense of hearing, making them particularly sensitive to loud sounds. A single explosion can disrupt their environment, leading to confusion and trauma. Many birds wander aimlessly, and some may die from shock or as a result of stress during the critical time when eggs are developing in their nests.
Rohit Nayal, a local bird watcher in Nainital, notes that around 700 to 790 bird species inhabit the region, including the Red-Headed Vulture, Gray-Spotted Eagle, and many more unique species. The Diwali celebrations, marked by excessive noise, create an unsuitable environment for these birds. The decibel levels of approximately 150 emitted from firecrackers can be particularly harmful, resulting in potential fatalities among the avian population.
This Diwali, while filled with celebration for many, highlights the urgent need to consider the well-being of local wildlife.
