EKALAVYA MALLEPALLI | Hyderabad 

With the growing concerns about avian welfare amid rising temperatures and lack of water sources, several non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in the city have come to the aid of local bird populations. By strategically placing water bowls in various community areas, these organizations aim to provide essential hydration for birds, ensuring their survival and health during harsh weather conditions. 

Soudharm Bhandari, Coordinator of the Greater Hyderabad Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GHSPCA) distributed 250 water bowls and bird feeders across the city and plans to expand the initiative based on demand. Last year, GHSPCA provided around 1,300 water bowls in areas such as Ameerpet, Bowenpally, Bahadurpura, Charminar, Rasoolpura, Tarnaka and other areas.

Every year during summer there is a rise of bird deaths. Pigeons, crows, kites, parrots, owls, and swallows being among the most affected species. Similarly, the Animal Warriors Conservation Society (AWCS) has started distributing 300 water bowls and sparrow nests to support birds during the summer. The organization has been actively responding to rescue calls and will donate additional sparrow nests on World Sparrow Day (March 20). Since 2016, AWCS has distributed 3,000 bird boxes, creating safe shelters for birds in urban environments.

Shiva Prakash from the Sarva Jeeva Society emphasized the urgent need for public awareness, stating that rapid urbanization is destroying natural habitats, forcing birds to depend on human intervention for survival. He urged people to set up water sources for birds and animals, stressing that nearly 5,000 birds die of dehydration each summer. His team has been actively rescuing and treating injured birds, ensuring their safe release back into the wild.

Another significant effort comes from the Animal Water Bowl Project (AWBP) Trust, which has distributed 704 water bowls in 2024 with the help of 54 volunteers. Lakshman Molleti from AWBP stressed that clean water and safe food should be available to birds and animals throughout the year, not just in extreme conditions. He warned that pollution and habitat destruction are making survival increasingly difficult for wildlife.

With temperatures rising each year, NGOs are calling for collective action from Hyderabad’s residents. Placing a simple water bowl outside can make a life-saving difference for birds and animals struggling in the heat. Citizens are encouraged to reach out to these NGOs for free water bowls and contribute to protecting the city’s wildlife.