In a major move to curb public health risks, the Maharashtra government on Friday ordered the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to immediately shut down all ‘kabootar khanas’—designated pigeon-feeding spots—across Mumbai. The decision follows growing concerns over respiratory illnesses caused by constant exposure to pigeon droppings and feathers.
The directive came after Shiv Sena leader and MLC Manisha Kayande raised the issue in the Maharashtra Legislative Council, warning that pigeon-feeding zones pose a severe threat to residents living nearby. BJP Council member Chitra Wagh also shared a personal tragedy, revealing that her aunt died from a respiratory disease linked to pigeon droppings.
Responding on behalf of Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Minister Uday Samant disclosed there are currently 51 operational kabootar khanas in Mumbai. He announced an immediate awareness campaign will begin within a month, followed by swift action to close all feeding sites.
Samant debunked the widespread belief that feeding pigeons is harmless or spiritually beneficial, warning it actually fuels dangerous health conditions. He added that pigeons in areas like Girgaum Chowpatty have even been seen eating leftover junk food, further endangering both the birds and humans.
Highlighting issues of non-compliance, Samant cited the example of Dadar Kabootar Khana, which resumed operations after a temporary shutdown as citizens continued to feed pigeons despite the ban. In a written reply, Shinde confirmed that unauthorised kabootar khanas in Santacruz East and Daulat Nagar were already shut down and redeveloped into traffic islands and Miyawaki gardens.
The government has urged Mumbai residents to cooperate with the shutdown, emphasising the long-term health benefits of ending the public feeding of pigeons.
