Mumbai: The Mumbai Fire Brigade (MFB) is set to purchase 57 new bird rescue poles to help save birds trapped on electric poles and high-tension wires. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has invited bids to supply these telescopic poles, with one pole assigned to each of the 35 fire stations across the city.
The remaining poles will be kept at fire station headquarters in both the eastern and western suburbs, as well as in the island city division, for emergency use.
These new poles are designed to be more durable and effective in rescuing birds. Currently, each fire station in Mumbai has only one bird rescue pole, which was purchased in 2017.
This new purchase will update the existing equipment. The data shows that 40 birds, including pigeons, owls, and kites, were injured during the New Year and Makar Sankranti kite celebrations. These injuries ranged from minor cuts to severe wounds. Each year, the city receives around 700 to 800 rescue calls related to bird injuries.
Animal welfare organisations and rescuers have also noticed a growing number of animals dying as a result of being lodged in pipes and high-voltage poles.
Many animals were injured by kite strings during the Makar Sankranti festival, which was partially triggered by the city's tall buildings and electrical cable.
