Navi Mumbai’s pink flamingo stretch marred by reckless drone flying

Large flocks of flamingos paint parts of Navi Mumbai pink, attracting birdwatchers and photographers to the city’s wetlands. Pics/Shadab Khan

Several parts of Navi Mumbai have turned into a picturesque pink landscape with the arrival of large flocks of flamingos, attracting nature lovers and wildlife photographers. However, a disturbing trend has emerged, with photographers and social media influencers allegedly flying drones dangerously close to the birds, disturbing the flock and their natural habitat. Concerned citizens and nature lovers have now demanded strict action.

Popular spots

Birdwatchers usually visit TS Chanakya, areas behind NRI Complex, and DPS Lake to spot flamingos. However, this year, flamingos are currently visible only in the area behind the NRI Complex.

Drone concern

Recently, a nature lover visiting the area behind the NRI Complex spotted people flying drones above the flamingos. Several drone videos shot by influencers have gone viral on social media and Instagram. Following these viral videos, many influencers are reportedly rushing to Navi Mumbai to click photographs and capture drone footage of the flamingos.

Flamingos flying over Navi Mumbai wetlands. PIC/RANE ASHISH

People Speak

Sunil Agarwal, green activist
"I often comes across people flying drones very close to birds during my walks and I warn them about possible police and forest department action. There is a need for permanent regulation of irresponsible drone use around wildlife, while ensuring genuine photographers using drones responsibly are not penalised."

Lakshminarayanan Iyer, nature lover
"The careless drone activity could stop flamingos from returning we need to protect their habitat."