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Ahmedabad: Bird Injuries Soar Before Uttarayan
14 Jan
Summary
- Hundreds of birds injured by kite strings, numbers increasing yearly.
- Migratory and native bird species are affected by the festival's timing.
- Gujarat government launches Karuna Abhiyan to aid injured animals.
In Ahmedabad, the upcoming Uttarayan festival has brought a surge in injuries among birds due to kite strings. The Jivdaya Charitable Trust has recorded 736 injured birds from January 1 to 9, surpassing last year's numbers for the same period. This increase highlights a growing danger to avian wildlife.
The festival's timing, coinciding with the peak migratory and nesting season for many bird species, exacerbates the problem. Beyond common pigeons and kites, vulnerable migratory birds like painted storks, pelicans, and greater spotted eagles are also falling victim to the hazardous 'manjha' strings. This poses a significant threat to biodiversity.
To mitigate these risks, the Gujarat government has initiated its annual Karuna Abhiyan from January 10 to 20. This campaign mobilizes hundreds of vets, staff, and volunteers across numerous treatment and control centers throughout the state to rescue and treat injured animals and birds. Citizens are urged to contact helplines if they encounter injured wildlife.
