Mumbai civic authorities have opened a public consultation period following the receipt of three applications for controlled feeding of pigeons across the city. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has invited citizens to submit objections and suggestions between August 18 and August 29 before any decision is finalised.
The applications, submitted by local organisations and residents, including the Dadar Kabutar Khana Trust Board, request permission for regulated feeding and provision of water to pigeons at established locations, traditional feeding zones, and residential areas where pigeon colonies have naturally formed. Officials stress that this initiative must balance animal welfare with public health considerations, particularly in densely populated urban areas. The Bombay High Court previously instructed the BMC to follow due process before allowing controlled pigeon feeding. A division bench emphasised that public health concerns must guide the municipality’s decisions and that no immediate approval can be granted without issuing notices and receiving public feedback. Officials note that this approach ensures transparency, accountability, and equitable civic governance while addressing ecological and health-related factors.
Residents wishing to participate in the consultation process can review the applications on the BMC website and submit objections or suggestions via email to suggestions@mcgm.gov.in. Alternatively, written submissions can be made in person to the Executive Health Officer at the South Ward Office, Babasaheb Ambedkar Marg, Parel, during office hours. Experts highlight that such inclusive processes strengthen community engagement and enable informed decision-making on urban wildlife management. The debate over controlled pigeon feeding is part of a broader discussion on sustainable urban coexistence with wildlife. Officials underline that regulated feeding practices can reduce conflict between humans and animals, support biodiversity, and prevent the unregulated proliferation of pigeon populations in public spaces. At the same time, they emphasise that improper management could exacerbate public health risks, including sanitation challenges and disease transmission.
Urban ecologists and civic experts point out that cities like Mumbai must adopt strategies that integrate environmental sustainability with equitable access for citizens to participate in urban planning decisions. The ongoing consultation process is an opportunity to align wildlife management with gender-neutral, eco-friendly, and health-conscious urban policies, ensuring that the city’s dense population and its animal inhabitants can coexist responsibly. As Mumbai navigates this sensitive issue, officials aim to maintain the sanctity of public health considerations while respecting community and environmental interests. The final decision will reflect a balance between human welfare and sustainable urban ecology, setting a precedent for inclusive and responsible city management.
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