Mumbai: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has intensified its crackdown on pigeon feeding across the city, collecting fines of over ₹2.17 lakh between July 1 and August 25. As per the revised Solid Waste Management bylaws, a penalty of ₹500 is imposed on each feeder, with 13 NC/FIRs registered so far.
Action has been most prominent in Dadar, Bandra, Malad, Borivali, Mulund, and Fort. The Dadar kabutar khana, which became the epicenter of protests by both pigeon lovers and ban supporters, continues to remain sealed with bamboos and tarpaulin.
The ban has sparked controversy, with bird lovers alleging that pigeons are starving, while health concerns over pigeon droppings continue to mount. Following protests by the Jain community, the BMC assured the Bombay High Court that it is open to allowing controlled feeding through regulated time slots. The civic body had also invited public feedback on the matter, with the deadline for suggestions ending on August 28.
Meanwhile, the state government, acting on HC directions, has set up an expert committee comprising scientists, doctors, and health officers to study the health hazards caused by pigeon droppings. The committee will also examine the feasibility of controlled feeding and draft regulations accordingly.
