Ulaanbaatar
2343 birds died from electric shock
PoliticsUlaanbaatar /MONTSAME/ In 2013-2016, a total of 2343 birds of 20-26 types died due to electric shock, a study result shows. Out of them, 867 birds were saker falcon, a bird of national pride. Today, a consultation workshop “Risk of raptorial birds to be hit by power of electric lines and possibilities to reduce it” was held at the Center of Clean Water Reserve and Nature Protection.
Over the last 10 years, a great progress has been achieved in the energy sector of Mongolia, starting to provide all soum centers with reliable energy and electricity lines based on concrete pillars has been used for it. "Although it is a durable and effective solution, it causes remarkable damage to the environment", said Deputy Minister of Environment and Tourism Ts.Batbayar.
“- According to researchers and scientists, birds including falcons, buzzards, and eagles are commonly hit by electric power. These birds have own ecological and economic values. For example, one saker falcon is valued at MNT16 million. We cause huge damage that costs billions to nature. Therefore, government, private sector and citizens should collaborate to solve this issue” the Deputy Minister said.
Officials from Ministry of Environment and Tourism, Energy Ministry and electricity distribution companies and researchers of scientific organization, universities, international organizations and NGOs attended the meeting. They highlighted the necessity to make electric lines safe for birds, set up infrastructure and financial source needed to tackle the problem and foster public and private partnership.
