Mumbai’s civic efforts to control unregulated pigeon feeding continue to face criticism over patchy enforcement, with residents and local businesses pointing to inconsistent action across different parts of the city. While certain hotspots are under strict watch, other equally problematic sites remain largely unchecked, raising concerns about public health and the effectiveness of the drive.
A visit to multiple feeding points revealed stark differences in implementation. At GPO Corner on Mint Road, locals reported that pigeon feeding continues unhindered. Without civic staff or police presence, individuals openly scatter grains, contributing to growing pigeon populations. Residents warn that droppings and airborne infections pose significant health risks and stress the need for regular surveillance, covered feeding zones, and penalties for violators. In contrast, the Dadar Kabutarkhana has witnessed a sustained clampdown following large-scale public protests last week. Authorities have stationed police personnel and deployed civic workers armed with penalty books. A large tarpaulin has been installed to discourage feeding, and fines are being levied promptly. While officials claim this as a model of enforcement, some shopkeepers complain that the heavy police bandobast and restricted movement are hurting business, particularly during the festive shopping season.
At the Matunga station feeding site, a tarpaulin has been placed over the Kabutarkhana, but residents claim the measure is being subverted by people tossing grains over the covering. They allege that enforcement teams rarely visit, leaving the location vulnerable to unsanitary conditions. Local shopkeepers fear a potential public health crisis if the issue is not addressed uniformly. Public health experts warn that unregulated feeding contributes to dense pigeon populations, which in turn increases the risk of respiratory ailments such as hypersensitivity pneumonitis, often referred to as “pigeon breeder’s lung.” The droppings also pose a risk of fungal infections, making proactive intervention essential for a city already grappling with urban health challenges.
According to civic officials, the ongoing campaign has resulted in ₹68,700 collected in fines from 142 cases between mid-July and early August this year, spanning 42 identified feeding locations. Penalties under the Solid Waste Management By-Laws currently stand at ₹500 per violation. However, residents and health advocates argue that sporadic action undermines the impact of these measures. The call from both communities and public health experts is clear: Mumbai needs a citywide, consistent approach to pigeon feeding regulation. Without a standardised enforcement mechanism, civic efforts risk being perceived as symbolic rather than transformative, leaving public health vulnerabilities unaddressed.
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