Mumbai: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has invited citizens to submit suggestions and objections regarding its proposal to allow controlled pigeon feeding at designated kabutar khanas.
Residents can send their feedback via email to suggestions@mcgm.gov.in between Monday, August 18, and Friday, August 29, or submit them physically to the Executive Health Officer at the F-South ward office, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Marg, Parel.
The initiative follows BMC’s statement in the Bombay High Court last week, expressing willingness to permit regulated feeding. The Court had directed the civic body to seek public opinion before granting approval.
So far, three applications have been reviewed — from the Dadar Kabutarkhana Trust Board, Yasmin Bhansali & Company, and animal rights activist Pallavi Patil, who is also a petitioner in the case against BMC’s closure of kabutar khanas.
Animal activist Sneha Visaria, a co-petitioner, welcomed the step. “At least they are considering to start pigeon feeding. I had submitted 12 applications and was told it will take a week to reach the health officer and ward offices. Every day several pigeons are dying out of starvation. We urge BMC to start controlled feeding thrice a day,” she said.
The issue, however, remains divisive. Last month, the BMC shut down kabutar khanas following state government directives citing health risks, including severe respiratory illnesses caused by pigeon droppings. While animal lovers are demanding regulated feeding, supporters of the ban insist human health must remain the priority.
