Tamil Nadu villagers skip firecrackers to protect migratory birds during Diwali
Residents of more than 10 hamlets near Vellode Bird Sanctuary have voluntarily avoided bursting crackers for 20 years to protect avian visitors.
Residents of more than 10 hamlets near the Vellode Bird Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu's Erode district have voluntarily stopped bursting firecrackers during Diwali. According to The Federal, the villagers have upheld this tradition for 20 consecutive years to protect migratory birds that visit the area.
The sanctuary, located about 10 km from Erode, hosts thousands of resident and migratory birds starting in October. Species such as Painted Storks, Asian Openbills, Pelicans, and Sandpipers arrive from locations including Siberia, Russia, Australia, and New Zealand.
The decision to avoid noise and smoke aims to ensure that birds are not frightened or disrupted during their breeding season. Local resident Kalpana told PTI that the community willingly gives up the joy of crackers so the birds are not frightened away and can thrive.
The 240-acre sanctuary features a 50-acre pond sustained by monsoon runoff and seepage from the Lower Bhavani Project canal. The facility was previously rejuvenated at a cost of Rs 2.35 crore following a severe dry spell.
While hamlets such as Mettupalayam, Pungambadi, and Ellapalayam observe the ban, villagers in nearby areas like Chellappampalayam and Kalarpalayam continue traditional festivities. Residents in the bird-protection zone celebrate by wearing new clothes and preparing sweets.