Digital lighting project in Athirappilly raises environmental and wildlife concerns

Thrissur, Kerala: Environmental activists have expressed concern over the state budget proposal to introduce a “digital lighting” project at the Athirappilly Waterfalls to enhance the visitor experience.

The UDF government has allocated ₹5 crore for the project. However, activists argue that excessive and unnecessary artificial lighting in a forest ecosystem can disrupt the natural rhythms of birds, animals, insects, amphibians and other wildlife, citing studies on the harmful effects of light pollution. They have urged authorities not to proceed with the project without careful consideration.

A similar proposal had reportedly been discussed years ago but was abandoned following strong opposition from environmental groups.

Critics also warn that allowing tourists into Athirappilly at night could have serious ecological consequences. Light-and-sound shows are often accompanied by loud music and crowd noise, which can disturb the silence of the forest and interfere with the natural behaviour of wildlife. They point out that provoking animals or disrupting their natural habitat can amount to a criminal offence punishable under wildlife protection laws.

Night-time foraging and wildlife concerns

Many nocturnal animals, including wild cats, owls, bats and amphibians, rely on complete darkness for hunting and foraging. The Athirappilly forest region is home to a wide variety of rare insects, including fireflies and nocturnal moths. For many species, key activities such as mating, navigation and food gathering take place during the night. Environmentalists warn that artificial lighting could disrupt these natural behaviours and adversely affect the delicate balance of the ecosystem.