Firecrackers endanger wildlife, experts urge mindful celebrations this Diwali

As the vibrant festival of Diwali lights up the Capital, a serious concern arises for conservationists, environmentalists, and animal welfare advocates amidst the joy and festivities.

The impact of firecrackers extends far beyond human enjoyment, posing significant threats to the wildlife that shares our urban spaces.

Every year, the bursting of firecrackers sends a wave of noise and air pollution that can have devastating effects on local fauna. Birds, in particular, bear the brunt of this celebration. The loud explosions not only cause immediate physical harm — such as burns and vision loss — but also release heavy metals and nitrogen oxides that compromise the respiratory health of avian population. “The pollution from the smoke is immense,” notes Baiju Raj MV, Director of Conservation Projects at Wildlife SOS. “As birds fly through the contaminated air, they suffer from respiratory issues that can be life-threatening,” he added.

The chaos created by firecrackers can lead to disorientation, resulting in birds crashing into buildings and trees, often with fatal outcomes. In the frenzy, young birds are especially vulnerable; those that flee their nests in fear may find it impossible to return. Raj highlights a poignant reality: “Many young birds are abandoned amid the noise, and those with sensitive hearing suffer greatly. Even mammals, like monkeys, will flee areas where the noise is unbearable.”

This situation is not merely about noise; it represents a deeper disconnect between human celebrations and the lives of wild animals. Kartick Satyanarayan, Co-founder and CEO of Wildlife SOS, emphasises the need for awareness. “When humans feel discomfort from smoke or noise, we can voice our concerns. But wild animals have no way to express their suffering. It’s imperative that we celebrate Diwali with mindfulness and consideration for the wildlife cohabiting our cities,” he said.

Geeta Seshamani, Co-founder and Secretary of Wildlife SOS, urged people to reconsider the impact of their festivities. “A festival of lights and happiness should not result in horror for wildlife. We need to be advocates for the animals who cannot speak for themselves,” she says. Wildlife SOS operates 24/7 emergency rescue helplines across multiple regions, ready to assist any animal in distress. “If you see a wild animal in trouble, please alert our rescue teams immediately,” she urges, sharing helpline numbers for various regions.

The pollution firecrackers generate creates a toxic cloud that can lead to long-term health issues for wildlife. “The smoke that rises not only harms birds, but can also lead to infections and secondary deaths due to accidents caused in the frenzy of noise,” Raj explains.

The Wildlife SOS has established dedicated helplines: Delhi NCR (9871963535), Agra & Mathura (9917109666), Vadodara (9825011117) and Jammu & Kashmir (7006692300, 9419778280).

‘Smoke life-threatening for birds’

The pollution from the smoke is immense. As birds fly through the contaminated air, they suffer from respiratory issues that can be life-threatening. Many young birds are abandoned amid the noise. — Baiju Raj MV, Director of Conservation Projects at Wildlife SOS