99% Invisible Towers of Silence: Vulture Conservation
May 3, 2024
Lasha Madan, a reporter with a focus on environmental issues, discusses the critical decline of vulture populations in India and its impact on the Parsi community's death rituals. The conversation reveals the emotional and logistical challenges faced by conservationists, especially during the COVID-19 lockdown. They explore the interdependencies between vultures, public health, and local economies while highlighting ongoing efforts to protect these vital scavengers. The episode also examines how urbanization threatens vulture habitats and the broader ecological consequences of their decline.
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Visiting the Vulture Center
- Lasha Madan visited the Pinjore vulture conservation center, the largest in India, housing 400 vultures.
- The center, run by Nikita and Vibhu Prakash, consists of concrete warehouses and aviaries to minimize human interaction.
Dedication Despite Dietary Restrictions
- Nikita Prakash, a Jain who avoids meat and root vegetables, dedicates herself to feeding the vultures goat meat twice a week.
- This dedication highlights the couple's commitment to vulture conservation despite personal sacrifices.
COVID-19 Challenges
- During COVID-19 lockdowns, Vibhu and Nikita struggled to get to the center and procure vulture food.
- Despite these difficulties, they ensured the vultures were fed every week, highlighting their unwavering commitment.