"Cities cannot just be for us": Neha Sinha calls for wildlife-friendly urban planning
Conservation biologist Neha Sinha urges cities to embrace native vegetation and wildlife-friendly planning to bring back birds like sparrows and vultures.
The next time you spot a bird in the heart of a bustling metropolis like Delhi, take a moment to look closer. It might not be the common blue rock pigeon you see every day, but something far more vibrant and unexpected, such as the elusive Green Pigeon.
For conservation biologist and author Neha Sinha, these overlooked species are a vital reminder that nature is constantly trying to coexist with us. Speaking at the Corbett Literature Festival, Sinha emphasized that the first step toward creating wildlife-friendly cities is simply paying attention to the creatures living right alongside us.
The Hidden Diversity of the Capital
Sinha, who has dedicated 15 years to wildlife conservation, highlighted a fact that often surprises urban dwellers: Delhi is the second most bird-rich capital on earth, boasting more than 400 bird species. However, she noted that many residents are unaware of this rich biodiversity.
"When I post about the Green Pigeon, people say, which pigeon is this? Because they only know the blue rock pigeon," Sinha remarked, noting how many people are unfamiliar with the local fauna that shares their space.
Her expertise is backed by a decade of research into Delhi’s wilderness, including its historic forts, the Ridge forest, wetlands, and Sanjay Van. This work culminated in her book, Wild Capital: Discovering Nature in Delhi (published internationally as My Wild City).
Redefining Urban Planning
As urban expansion continues to accelerate across India, Sinha argues that conservation must transition from an afterthought to an integral component of urban planning. She believes that green spaces, wetlands, and biodiversity parks are essential not just for animals, but for the mental well-being of humans facing the stresses of city life.
She pointed to the Aravalli Biodiversity Park and the Yamuna Biodiversity Park as successful models that support local ecosystems through native vegetation. According to Sinha, the future of Indian cities depends on moving away from designs meant exclusively for human convenience.
"Cities cannot just be for us," she asserted. "Cities are also for the Yamuna Nadi. Cities are also for the Sahibi Nadi. Cities are also for Goraiya, which is the sparrow and for Jatayu, which is the vulture."
Small Actions to Bring Birds Back
Sinha noted that the disappearance of certain familiar species, such as the hoopoe (known locally as 'Hurhur'), should serve as a wake-up call. However, she remains optimistic that through small, intentional changes, we can encourage wildlife to return.
She provided practical advice for residents looking to support local bird populations:
- Challenge the "Perfect Lawn" Myth: Not every lawn needs to be perfectly manicured. Overly neat lawns often lack the biological diversity birds need.
- Reduce Chemical Use: Excessive use of insecticides kills the insects that birds, like the house sparrow, rely on to feed their chicks.
- Plant Native: Using native Indian trees, plants, and creepers provides the correct food and shelter for local species.
- Create Hedges: Small hedges, such as bougainvillea, offer essential resting and roosting spots. In areas like Vasant Kunj and Dwarka, where hedges are common and chemical use is lower, house sparrows are still thriving.
- Leave Fallen Leaves: Allowing leaves to remain on the ground provides vital shelter for various small organisms.
By observing what birds eat and what they need, Sinha believes urban residents can play a direct role in restoring the natural balance of their neighborhoods. "If we can start providing the right plants, the right shelter, they will come back. They always do come back," she concluded.