More than 10 villages in the Erode district have upheld a voluntary ban on fireworks during Diwali for over two decades. The protected area centers on Periyakulam lake, an essential wetland fed by seasonal rains and seepage from the Lower Bhavani Project canal. This environmental safeguard shields vital species resting along the Central Asian Flyway from sudden noise and air pollution. Residents mark the festive occasion by wearing new attire, sharing feasts, and occasionally lighting quiet sparklers.
Key points
Local agricultural wetlands in Erode double as essential rest stops for migratory birds t…: Local agricultural wetlands in Erode double as essential rest stops for migratory birds travelling along the Central Asian Flyway.
Long-distance avian migrants visit the sanctuary from diverse global locations including…: Long-distance avian migrants visit the sanctuary from diverse global locations including Nigeria, Australia, Sri Lanka, and the Himalayas.
Community-led conservation practices protect notable species such as the bar-headed goose…: Community-led conservation practices protect notable species such as the bar-headed goose, spot-billed pelican, and Eurasian spoonbill from holiday disruptions.
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Diwali is celebrated differently in different parts of the country. There are 10 villages in Tamil Nadu who love their birds and other wildlife to the level that villagers have not burst crackers for ages now. In a heartwarming example of people putting wildlife before festivities, more than 10 villages surrounding the Vellode Birds Sanctuary in Erode district observe a cracker-free Diwali. While fireworks are traditionally associated with the festival of lights, residents of these villages choose to celebrate without bursting crackers, because sudden flashes and smoke can disturb migratory birds.
A community conservation storyCracker-free Diwali (Canva)
Located approximately 12 km from Erode town, Vellode Bird Sanctuary is among Tamil Nadu's important wetland habitats. Situated in Vadamugam Vellode village in Perundurai taluk, the sanctuary is spread across 77.185 hectares and is centred around a freshwater lake locally known as Periyakulam.
As per Tamil Nadu Forest Department, the sanctuary was declared a protected area under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, through a government order dated February 29, 2000.
The sanctuary attracts birds migrating from different parts of the world, including Australia,…
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