Mumbai : Physical and mental stress to birds and animals during Diwali has become a common phenomenon. In the past couple of days, two pet dogs went missing, and a parrot and a pigeon sustained injuries to their wings following the bursting of firecrackers. However, Plants and Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) stated that the cases of animals affected due to firecrackers have gone down as compared to last year which is a positive sign but still there is a lot to be done.
The NGO stated that two pet dogs were reported missing from Navi Mumbai and Mulund, following which, their information has been registered with different NGOs and the search for the dogs is under way. Further, they added that a parrot and a pigeon from Mulund were found injured and bleeding from their wings and were immediately treated. Though they are reported to be stable, it would take a few days for them to be able to fly, the NGO said.
Last year, the NGO got 21 cases of animals and birds being affected during Diwali festival. Sunish Subramanian, secretary of PAWS, said: “In total, there are four reported cases so far which is much less than last year. This is possible because of rigorous efforts and awareness created by various animal welfare organisations. Animals and birds get scared of the sound of firecrackers and run away from their homes. Also, owing to the high decibel sound of crackers, birds fall from their nests and sustain injuries. It is crucial that we celebrate Diwali in an eco-friendly manner which won’t badly affect anyone.”
