Ramazan spirit brings relief for thirsty birds in twin cities

Shazia Mehboob

Islamabad: The spirit of compassion associated with Ramazan is extending beyond people to wildlife, as residents of the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi are placing water bowls and bird feed on rooftops, outside homes and offices to help birds cope with the scorching summer temperatures.

The initiative has gained momentum during the holy month, with many citizens saying that fasting has made them more aware of the suffering caused by hunger and thirst—not only among fellow humans but also among birds and other animals struggling to find clean drinking water.

In several neighbourhoods across the twin cities, clay pots and water bowls can be seen on rooftops, balconies, streets and outside offices, providing a lifeline to sparrows, pigeons and other birds during the intense heat.

A resident of Islamabad’s G-9 sector, Irfan Shahid, said the idea came to him after witnessing a flock of sparrows desperately searching for water.

“I was fasting and feeling thirsty when I saw sparrows with their beaks open looking for water. I could relate to their suffering, so I placed water pots and bird feed in my street. Soon, my neighbours also joined the effort,” he said.

Another resident, Iftikhar Ahmed, said Ramazan encourages kindness and empathy, reminding people to care for all living beings.

Similarly, Fiaz Khan of Dhoke Hassu purchased dozens of clay pots and distributed them among neighbours, encouraging them to keep the containers filled with clean water and bird feed throughout the summer.

He said he also plans to launch a social media campaign urging people to install water pots in areas where birds face water shortages.

Environmentalists note that every summer thousands of birds die from dehydration or are forced to drink contaminated water from drains and sewerage lines, exposing them to disease.

They warn that rising temperatures linked to climate change are further increasing the risk to birds and other wildlife. Pakistan remains among the countries most vulnerable to climate change, with increasingly frequent heatwaves and extreme weather threatening biodiversity, food security and livelihoods.

Residents believe that the simple act of keeping water available for birds can make a meaningful difference during the harsh summer months while reflecting the values of compassion and generosity promoted during Ramazan.