Every year ahead of Republic Day, Delhi implements a unique wildlife management plan popularly called the ‘birds party’. Authorities feed kites in selected areas to keep them away from the Republic Day flypast route, reducing the risk of dangerous bird strikes.
Delhi’s Unique ‘Birds Party’ Ensures Safe Republic Day Aerial Show
New Delhi: Every year on January 26th, the country celebrates Republic Day and a grand flypast by the Indian Air Force takes place over Delhi. Fighter jets and helicopters fly at high speeds. However, a major challenge during this time is birds, especially eagles. If a large bird collides with an aircraft, it is called a "bird strike," which can cause a serious accident. To mitigate this risk, a special program is implemented in Delhi, which people jokingly call the "bird party."
Eagles are abundant in many areas of Delhi, especially Old Delhi. These birds fly at high altitudes and can interfere with the flypast. To prevent this, the Forest Department, the Delhi government, and the Air Force work together to keep the eagles in a designated area by providing them with their favorite food. When the eagles find enough food near the ground, they do not soar high, and the aircraft's path is safe.
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Previously, buffalo meat was fed to the eagles under this scheme, but this year, boneless chicken is being used for the first time. According to officials, chicken is lighter, easier to eat, and more appealing to the eagles. This helps them become satisfied quickly and stay in designated areas, making the scheme more effective.
Around 20 sensitive areas in Delhi have been identified where the eagle population is high. These include the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Mandi House, Delhi Gate, and the surrounding areas of the old city. Small pieces of chicken are thrown here to keep the birds down.
The entire process runs from January 15th to January 26th. A total of approximately 1,275 kg of chicken is used during this period. Meat is supplied in fixed quantities on different days, first brought to the wildlife center and then sent to the designated areas.
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The "Paridon Ki Party" significantly reduces the risk of bird strikes. The flypast remains safe, ensuring the safety of pilots and aircraft, and preventing any harm to birds. This plan is a prime example of striking a balance between national security and wildlife conservation.
