Guwahati: Conservation organisation Aaranyak has urged government authorities to impose a complete ban on drone operations at and around identified Amur Falcon congregation sites in Assam during the birds’ seasonal presence, citing concerns over their safety and potential disturbance.
The appeal follows reports of content creators and visitors flying drones close to groups of Amur Falcons to capture photographs and videos for social media. Aaranyak has warned that such activities could pose serious risks to the migratory birds, particularly because of the high-speed rotating propellers, which could cause severe injuries in the event of a collision.
Although Amur Falcons are known for their active and curious behaviour and can sometimes display aggression towards other birds, the organisation pointed out that these characteristics do not protect them from the dangers posed by drones. Drone activity in their immediate surroundings could also cause unnecessary disturbance at their congregation sites.
Udayan Borthakur, Organising Secretary of Aaranyak and a noted wildlife photographer, expressed concern over the growing use of drones near the birds.
He said that capturing aerial photographs and videos for social media should not come at the cost of wildlife safety. He also stressed that the opportunity to observe the migratory birds carries a responsibility to protect them, adding that their well-being must take priority over photography and online popularity.
Aaranyak has specifically appealed to the Dima Hasao Autonomous Council and the Morigaon district administration to issue orders prohibiting recreational, commercial and other non-essential drone operations around identified Amur Falcon congregation sites.
The organisation has also called for clearly demarcated no-drone buffer zones, effective enforcement by the Forest Department and local administration, and public awareness campaigns to discourage drone use near the birds.
Offering its support, Aaranyak said it was willing to assist the authorities in preparing awareness materials and conducting sensitisation programmes for local communities, visitors, photographers and content creators to encourage responsible conduct around the congregation sites.
Amur Falcons undertake one of the longest migratory journeys among bird species, travelling from their breeding grounds in eastern Asia to wintering areas in southern Africa. Assam and other parts of Northeast India serve as important transit locations during their annual migration.
The organisation emphasised that protecting the birds’ congregation sites from unnecessary human disturbance is essential to ensuring their safe passage.
Aaranyak maintained that wildlife conservation must take precedence over human entertainment and personal interests, urging visitors and wildlife photographers to follow responsible practices.