GIB, a large bird with a horizontal body and long bare legs, giving it an ostrich like appearance, is among the heaviest of the flying birds. It is especially found in Rajasthan and Gujarat, and the alarming decrease in its numbers is attributed to their frequent collisions with overhead power transmission lines including those of solar power plants their habitats. The GIBs have lateral vision as their eyes are on the sides of their head and they find it difficult to change their course of flight when confronted with a live wire.During the hearing in January, the apex court had referred to twin rival aspects of the matter, saying that one pertained to saving these birds and the other related to setting up of solar power plants in states like Rajasthan and Gujarat, the key habitats of this endangered species. The top court had asked the Centre to come out with a comprehensive plan.The bench had taken note of the submissions of senior advocate Shyam Divan, appearing for PIL petitioner MK Ranjitsinh, a retired IAS officer, and others that the GIB is on the verge of extinction and the court’s 2021 judgement has not been complied with.The top court, in its 2021 judgement on the PIL, had passed a slew of directions to save the GIB.
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