Ten days into the state-imposed ban on pigeon feeding at public spaces, the city of Mumbai has initiated strong civic enforcement, resulting in monetary penalties against 107 individuals found violating the new norms. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) collected a total of ₹55,700 in fines across 49 locations, marking a decisive step towards safeguarding public health and improving urban hygiene.
Officials confirmed that each violator was fined ₹500 under the provisions of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation (MMC) Act, which prohibits unauthorised feeding of animals and birds in public areas. The recent crackdown comes in the wake of a resolution passed by the state assembly on July 3, banning pigeon feeding at Kabootarkhanas—designated zones historically used for bird congregation—citing increasing health concerns, particularly respiratory issues caused by pigeon droppings. The highest number of violations were recorded at the Dadar Kabootarkhana, where 16 offenders were fined a collective ₹7,700. Officials also seized around 10 kilograms of grain packed in two gunny bags at this location. Bandra Talao followed, where eight individuals were penalised ₹4,000. Malad East emerged as another hotspot, with 15 violators fined across five different public spots, yielding ₹7,500 in penalties.
According to civic officials, this enforcement drive is just the beginning. Teams from each ward office have been mobilised to monitor areas historically known for pigeon congregation. The initiative is not only a compliance measure but also part of a broader urban sustainability and public health strategy aimed at reducing zoonotic health risks, encouraging behavioural change among residents, and discouraging ecologically imbalanced practices in dense urban environments. Health experts have long warned of the risks associated with feeding pigeons in urban public spaces. The high concentration of birds in confined areas increases the risk of airborne diseases such as histoplasmosis and cryptococcosis, both linked to pigeon droppings. Civic authorities say such practices not only endanger human health but also create unsanitary conditions, adding to the city’s already complex waste management challenges.
Environmentalists argue that while compassion towards animals is important, practices such as mass feeding in public spaces without proper ecological consideration are counterproductive. “Feeding birds in open urban settings contributes to unnatural dependency and overpopulation of certain species, disrupting the urban biodiversity,” said a conservation expert. The move aligns with Mumbai’s larger goal of becoming a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable city. Civic bodies are also considering awareness campaigns and designated feeding zones in controlled environments to accommodate animal welfare concerns without compromising public well-being.
As the implementation continues, authorities have clarified that the penalties will remain a recurring measure. Residents are being urged to refrain from feeding birds in public spaces and instead support eco-sensitive initiatives that balance compassion with city-wide sustainability goals.
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