Mumbai bans pigeon feeding at heritage kabutarkhanas, BMC fines 142
Mumbai is currently grappling with a contentious issue surrounding the closure of long-standing pigeon feeding sites, known as kabutarkhanas. This move, initiated by the city’s civic body in compliance with court orders, has ignited strong protests from religious communities who view the practice as a charitable act. The civic administration, citing concerns over public health and sanitation, has begun covering these sites and issuing fines. As the debate intensifies, stakeholders are seeking a middle ground to balance community traditions with urban ecological and health standards.
The municipal corporation has intensified its enforcement actions, levying fines on a significant number of individuals for feeding pigeons in public spaces. Official data indicates that in a span of just a few weeks, 142 people were penalised a total of over ₹68,000 for this activity. A substantial portion of these fines were collected at the iconic Dadar kabutarkhana, where 61 individuals were fined more than ₹27,000. The civic body’s swift measures have been met with resistance, particularly from communities for whom feeding birds is a deeply ingrained religious and cultural practice. Protesters have accused the authorities of abruptly disrupting a century-old tradition and, in their view, endangering the birds’ well-being.
Amidst the growing public outcry, state authorities have stepped in to mediate. A high-level meeting was convened by the chief minister to address the issue and explore potential solutions that respect public sentiment while adhering to legal directives. A prominent minister has proposed establishing temporary feeding zones in designated, controlled environments such as Aarey Colony and Sanjay Gandhi National Park. This suggestion aims to offer a balanced approach, allowing for the continuation of the practice in a way that minimises public health risks and maintains urban cleanliness. This proposed strategy reflects a recognition of the need for a solution that reconciles diverse interests without compromising the city’s broader environmental and health objectives.
The conflict highlights a broader urban challenge of managing human-wildlife interaction in a densely populated metropolis. While some residents and shopkeepers express relief at the closures, citing reduced public inconvenience and sanitation issues, others remain firm in their opposition, vowing to continue their protests if a favourable resolution isn’t reached. The financial burden of fines and the emotional distress of discontinuing a cherished tradition have created a complex social and political landscape. This situation underscores the delicate balance urban planners must strike between preserving cultural heritage and implementing modern, sustainable urban policies. The ongoing dialogue between community leaders and city officials aims to forge a path forward that is both equitable and beneficial for all citizens of Mumbai.
