About 75% decline in BIRD injuries during Diwali
The deafening sound of Diwali explosives and the resultant smoke is not only injurious to humans but is also dangerous to the lives of mute animals and birds. Each year, during the Diwali festival many animals and birds have a terrifying experience. This year, SAFAR (System of Air Quality Weather Forecasting and Research) and Maharashtra Pollution Control Board may have rejoiced terming the pollution and sound levels to be under control, but the truth is that birds and animals had a harrowing time. But, thankfully, the awareness drive by the media and animal welfare organisations like PAWS on social networks did a commendable job as there was a decline of 60% to 70% in animal and bird injuries in Mumbai.
Overjoyed at the decline, honorary wildlife warden and animal activist Sunish Subramanian of Plant and Animals Welfare Society (PAWS-Mumbai) told Home Times, “I am highly delighted as there has been a great awareness among the common man regarding the ill-effects of firecrackers on animals and birds. Last year, 20 animals and birds were injured during Diwali, but fortunately this year the number is just 5. Thus, there is a huge drop of 75% and this is true, heartening. Besides, not a single animal was found injured.” He added, “From Mulund to Ghatkopar we have found just 5 birds injured as a result of firecrackers. The injured birds are Heron, Owl and pigeons. All these birds have sustained minor injuries.”
Sunish Subramanian also informed, “During Diwali, the sound of some firecrackers is around 100 dB. This is too terrifying for birds and animals. As a result, some animals become aggressive while some become irritable while some are so frightened that they seek shelter beneath attics or in the laps of their beloved owners.” He added, “The most common effects of noise pollution on animals are symptoms of sickness, loss of appetite, salivation and defecation inside the house. Some small birds even die due to heart attack.”
Sunish Subramanian said, “This year, not only less firecrackers were burst but even the level of air/sound pollution was less. Hence, a few birds were injured but no animal was injured. I hope people maintain the same temperament towards animals and birds in the coming future and live in harmony and peace.”
