The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has received three formal applications seeking the withdrawal of its ban on pigeon feeding in public places across Mumbai. The applications come after the civic body’s decision to impose restrictions earlier this year, citing serious health hazards linked to excessive pigeon feeding.
According to civic officials, the ban was introduced after repeated reports of rising cases of respiratory illnesses associated with exposure to pigeon droppings. Medical experts have long warned that the fine dust from dried droppings can cause hypersensitivity pneumonitis, popularly referred to as ‘pigeon flu’, which leads to severe breathing difficulties. The BMC had therefore prohibited feeding in crowded areas and public spaces, including markets, gardens, and housing colonies, to curb risks. However, the recent applications argue that the ban disregards deep-rooted cultural and religious sentiments. Feeding pigeons has, for generations, been seen as an act of kindness and a ritual of spiritual significance among several communities in the city. Applicants have requested the civic body to reconsider its stance and instead provide designated “pigeon feeding zones” where the practice can continue without posing risks to the larger public.
One applicant suggested that the civic body could introduce controlled feeding spots with proper hygiene measures and frequent cleaning. Another proposal asked for the creation of bird shelters away from densely populated residential areas, ensuring that both public health concerns and traditional practices are respected. While civic authorities have acknowledged the cultural sensitivity surrounding the issue, they maintain that public health cannot be compromised. Officials stated that the matter is currently under review and that inputs will be sought from medical experts, citizen groups, and community representatives before taking a final call. “Any decision will be balanced between safeguarding citizens’ health and respecting the sentiments of communities,” a senior official noted.
Health professionals remain cautious about lifting the ban altogether. Doctors emphasise that pigeon-related respiratory infections can become chronic if exposure continues over time, particularly affecting children and the elderly. They recommend that if feeding is permitted in certain zones, it must be accompanied by strict regulations, including regular cleaning and health advisories for the public. The issue has once again sparked a debate in the city—between those advocating for cultural traditions and those urging stricter enforcement of health norms. Animal welfare groups, too, are divided, with some supporting designated feeding areas and others arguing that the practice encourages overpopulation of pigeons, making them more vulnerable to disease and accidents.
For now, the BMC will carefully examine the three applications and conduct consultations before issuing any revised guidelines. A final decision is expected to be taken in the coming weeks, keeping both citizen safety and cultural practices in consideration.
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