Urbanisation, use of chemical pesticides killing fireflies

Aurangabad, May 27:

Rising urbanisation, industrialisation and agricultural intensification have had a negative impact on the number of fireflies. Use of chemicals and increasing light pollution has also become a problem for the once abundant fireflies.

Fireflies can be spotted in Khandala Ghat, Bhandardara, Akola, Satara and parts of Sangli. From May to June these places are lit up with fireflies at night. Thousands of tourists visit western Maharashtra during this time to enjoy this indescribable sight and enjoy the Kajwa festival. Fireflies are mainly found in areas with high humidity. But even in Marathwada, some species of fireflies could be easily seen till a few years ago. But spraying of chemical pesticides, deforestation, reduced rainfall, light pollution, vehicles as well as polluted air from factories have taken the fireflies away from Marathwada. Environmentalists are now calling for a reduction in the use of chemicals in areas where fireflies are spotted.

Excessive use of chemical pesticides

Despite the dry weather, a few years ago, a large number of fireflies were seen in the rural areas of Marathwada. Many people have seen fireflies in urban areas as well. But now, even in rural areas, fireflies are rarely seen shining. The main reason for this is the excessive use of chemical pesticides for agriculture. Many insects, including fireflies and bees, have been badly affected by chemical pesticides. The absence of fireflies is an indication that the chemical content has exceeded the limit, said environmental researcher Dr Satish Patil.