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A recent judicial order prohibiting the feeding of pigeons in Mumbai’s public areas has ignited a dispute involving municipal authorities, public health advocates, and avian enthusiasts.
Earlier this month, confrontations between hundreds of protestors and law enforcement occurred during demonstrations against the closure of a long-standing pigeon feeding site, known locally as a kabutarkhana. (Kabutar is the Hindi term for pigeon.)
Reports indicate that protestors dismantled protective coverings at the site and threatened a hunger strike. Authorities reportedly detained approximately 15 individuals during a separate demonstration.
The ban was implemented by officials citing public health concerns related to pigeon excrement.
This issue is not exclusive to Mumbai. Cities such as Venice have banned pigeon feeding in historic plazas, Singapore enforces significant penalties, and New York and London have designated regulated feeding zones.
Within India, Pune and Thane, also located in Maharashtra state, have already instituted fines for feeding pigeons. Delhi is contemplating an advisory against feeding pigeons in public spaces, citing similar health concerns.
These measures have elicited disapproval from animal advocates and those who practice pigeon feeding as a religious custom, given the bird’s deep cultural roots in India.
Grain-feeding pigeons are often depicted in films to symbolize cities like Mumbai and Delhi, where they are commonly seen on balconies and air conditioning units.
Certain kabutarkhanas in Mumbai are recognized as heritage sites, originating as charitable spaces for grain donations.
Religious beliefs also play a role, as the Jain community in Mumbai views feeding pigeons as a sacred act and has actively participated in protests.
Elsewhere, many people share an affinity for pigeons, often regarded as symbols of peace and fidelity.
Syed Ismat, a Delhi resident, claims to have been feeding pigeons for four decades and considers them to be part of his family.
“They are innocent creatures, perhaps the most innocent of all. All they require is a little kindness,” Mr. Ismat stated.
However, these views contrast with research indicating that prolonged exposure to pigeon droppings can lead to pulmonary and respiratory ailments.
The increasing pigeon population in India has amplified this risk, leading to the implementation of restrictions.
According to Faiyaz Khudsar, a Delhi-based biodiversity expert, the easy availability of food has contributed to pigeon overpopulation in numerous countries.
He noted that in India, the challenge is exacerbated by the decline of birds like the goraiya, or house sparrow, which are increasingly displaced by pigeons.
“With abundant food and a lack of predators, pigeons are reproducing at an unprecedented rate. They are outcompeting other urban bird species, resulting in ecological imbalance,” Mr. Khudsar explained.
The 2023 State of India’s Birds report reveals a rise of over 150% in pigeon numbers since 2000 – the most significant increase among all bird species – causing concerns about droppings in residential and public areas, with each bird producing up to 15kg (33lbs) annually.
Research has identified at least seven types of zoonotic pathogens in these droppings, capable of causing illnesses like pneumonia, fungal infections, and lung damage in humans.
Nirmal Kohli, a 75-year-old Delhi resident, began experiencing a persistent cough and breathing difficulties several years ago.
According to her son, Amit Kohli, “A CT scan ultimately revealed that a portion of her lung had shrunk. Doctors attributed it to exposure to pigeon droppings.”
Last year, an 11-year-old boy in Delhi passed away from hypersensitivity pneumonitis, a condition causing lung inflammation. Medical professionals linked the cause to prolonged exposure to pigeon droppings and feathers.
Pulmonologist RS Pal confirmed to the BBC that such cases are prevalent.
“Even without directly feeding pigeons, their droppings on window sills and balconies can induce hypersensitivity pneumonitis,” he stated.
“We also observe bacterial, viral, and fungal infections among individuals who handle pigeons regularly.”
These concerns prompted the Mumbai municipal body to implement the feeding ban last month and initiate the demolition of feeding sites.
While demolitions are currently suspended, the Bombay High Court has upheld the feeding ban, citing the “paramount” importance of public health and ordering stringent measures against unauthorized feeding.
Delhi Mayor Raja Iqbal Singh conveyed to the BBC that affection for birds cannot compromise the well-being of the populace.
“Feeding areas often become unsanitary, resulting in unpleasant odors, infections, and pests. We are actively working to minimize feeding,” he asserted.
However, many animal advocates disagree.
Mohammad Younus, a supplier of grains to a Delhi feeding location, argues that any animal can transmit diseases if proper hygiene is not maintained.
“I have been surrounded by pigeons for the past 15 years. If there were any risks, I would have been affected by now,” he stated.
In Mumbai, a Jain monk told BBC Marathi that the feeding ban could result in the starvation of thousands of pigeons.
Megha Uniyal, an animal rights activist, highlighted the ambiguity surrounding the implementation of the pigeon feeding ban.
“While authorities frequently mention regulating pigeon feeding, there is a lack of clarity regarding what this entails,” she noted.
Amid these conflicting perspectives, efforts are underway to find a compromise.
Ujjwal Agrain, representing People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta) India, suggests restricting pigeon feeding to specific morning and evening hours.
“This allows sufficient time for municipal bodies to clean the area and maintain hygiene, thereby respecting both public health and emotional connections,” he explained.
The Bombay High Court has established an expert panel to propose alternative solutions, and Mumbai civic officials indicate that controlled, staggered feeding may be permitted based on the panel’s recommendations.
For Syed Ismat, the solution lies in rethinking the relationship between birds and urban environments.
“Perhaps it is time to reimagine how we share our cities, not only with pigeons but with all forms of life,” he concluded.
Additional reporting by Sharanya Dayal in Delhi
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