The Great Indian Bustard (GIB), one of the world’s heaviest and most endangered flying birds, is finally receiving critical support from conservationists and the Indian government to prevent its extinction. This majestic bird, primarily found in the dry grasslands of Rajasthan and Gujarat, has seen its population plummet, with fewer than 200 individuals left. The biggest threat to the GIB’s survival is high-voltage power lines stretching across its habitat. These power lines are often fatal for the bird, as its poor frontal vision and low flight height make it difficult to avoid collisions.
In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court of India has mandated that power lines in critical bustard habitats be buried underground. This decision also includes directives to install bird diverters on existing lines in these regions to provide a visible deterrent for GIBs, minimizing collisions. This ruling is a significant victory for wildlife protection in India and a step forward in balancing energy needs with biodiversity conservation, as these regions are also home to vast solar and wind energy installations.
