Gujarat : Hundreds of Birds and Animals Injured in Uttrayan Festival

Ahmedabad : The two-day celebration of Uttarayan, heralded by vibrant kites and festive cheer, sadly took a somber turn for many innocent birds and animals in Gujarat. The state’s animal rescue helpline, Karuna, received a staggering 1605 calls over the festival period, highlighting the perilous impact of kite threads on wildlife.

Of these calls, 1175 were attributed to animals hit by kite threads, while 430 concerned injured birds. Dedicated NGOs and bird-saving organizations stepped up to provide crucial care for these victims, while the government launched rescue operations to ensure no creature was left behind.

Cities like Ahmedabad, Surat, Rajkot, Baroda, and Bhavnagar bore the brunt of these incidents, showcasing the intense kite-flying activity in these urban centers. Conversely, districts like Narmada and Chhota Udepur reported minimal cases, reflecting the less prevalent practice of kite flying in these regions.

Recognizing the need for proactive intervention, the Gujarat government launched Karuna Abhiyan 2023, a special initiative by the Forest Department aimed at animal rescue. This scheme, driven by the value of compassion, plays a crucial role in reducing the impact of festivals like Uttarayan on wildlife.

Further demonstrating its commitment, the Karuna Animal Ambulance began treating injured birds even before the festivities began, offering a vital lifeline to vulnerable creatures caught in the crossfire of kites and strings.