In recent years, Maharashtra has seen a wave of tourists crowding the sites of fireflies attracted by social media. While it has generated a lot of tourism, there are many negative impact to it.
In 2012, Ambarish More started the state's Kajwa Mahotsav, also known as the Fireflies Festival. He even got into an agreement with the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) to promote the festival and employ local tribes.
However, More has now noticed the damage it causes to environment, as per HT. He cited the harm to the insects and their homes. Visitors crush female fireflies by accident, leave trash, and use flash photography. Therefore, he has urged the government to stop these festivals next year.
The festival happens in Bhandardara, Ahmednagar, Akola, Nashik, and Kolhapur. It has gained popularity in recent years due to social media. From May 25 to June 15, the festival happened in places like Harishchandragad, Bhandardara, and Kalsubai. During this period, Bhandardara alone witnessed 30,000 to 35,000 visitors.
This month, tourists ignored rules set by Nashik's Forest and Wildlife Department at Bhandardara Sanctuary. Thousands came and scared away fireflies with their car lights. It should be noted that Bhandardara Sanctuary hosts many species besides fireflies. This rich biodiversity is now at risk from too many visitors.
There have been reports of harm to Arjun and Baheda trees. These trees are important to fireflies' homes. Female fireflies, which can't fly and live on the ground, often get stepped on while laying eggs. This kills the next generation of fireflies.
Activist Mayuri Dhumal even started a petition on jhatkaa.org for the cause. Reports suggest that from next year on, there may be changes in the event and facilities to protect fireflies.
In its early years, Kajwa Mahotsav began small with tempo travellers and buses. The small number of tourist buses were manageable. People followed strict rules, like no car lights or flashlights and sitting on roads instead of under trees.
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