Mumbai, July 10, 2025 – The Maharashtra State Human Rights Commission (MSHRC) has taken suo motu action to address the growing public health concerns caused by Mumbai’s skyrocketing pigeon population. Citing serious health risks from pigeon droppings and feather dust, the commission, led by Justice A M Badar, has issued notices to the state’s Health Secretary and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) chief, demanding detailed reports on measures to curb this urban menace within eight weeks.

Pigeon Population Surge Sparks Health Crisis

Mumbai’s pigeon population has surged in recent years, fueled by open feeding spaces known as “kabutar khanas.” These designated feeding zones, numbering over 50 across the city, have become hotspots for health hazards. Pigeon droppings and feather dust are linked to approximately 60 diseases, including Salmonella, psittacosis, and hypersensitivity pneumonitis, which can cause severe respiratory issues like lung fibrosis, chronic cough, and breathlessness.

The MSHRC highlighted that uncontrolled pigeon feeding, often involving leftover food like pizza and burgers, exacerbates the problem. This practice not only endangers public health but also contributes to traffic congestion and urban clutter in densely populated areas like Dadar, Mahim, and Girgaum Chowpatty.

Maharashtra Government and BMC Take Action

The state government recently directed the BMC to shut down all 51 kabutar khanas, following heated discussions in the Maharashtra Legislative Council. Urban Development Minister Uday Samant emphasized the need for immediate action, citing health risks and public complaints. The BMC has already begun enforcement, with a crackdown on illegal structures at Dadar’s kabutar khana, where officials removed grain sacks, unauthorized fencing, and sheds. Similar drives are planned for other locations, including Matunga and near CST’s General Post Office.

The BMC’s public health department is also launching a citywide awareness campaign to educate residents about the dangers of feeding pigeons. Experts like Dr. Amita Athavale from KEM Hospital warn that prolonged exposure to pigeon droppings can lead to irreversible lung damage, particularly affecting vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions.

Public and Animal Welfare Groups Divided

The decision to ban pigeon feeding has sparked mixed reactions. Many residents, including civic groups like Chakachak Dadar, support the move, citing relief from respiratory illnesses and traffic disruptions. “Feeding pigeons in congested public spaces is a public health disaster,” said Chetan Kamble, a Dadar resident. However, animal welfare groups and some locals argue that feeding pigeons is a cultural and religious practice, and abrupt bans could harm the birds. Advocates like Sneha Visaria from Just Smile Charitable Trust have criticized past demolitions, such as the Gowalia Tank kabutar khana, calling for humane alternatives like relocation to less populated areas.

A Call for Balanced Solutions

The MSHRC’s notice underscores the urgency of addressing this public health crisis while balancing ecological and cultural considerations. The commission has called for comprehensive reports from the Health Secretary and BMC to outline actionable steps, including stricter enforcement of feeding bans, public awareness initiatives, and potential relocation strategies for pigeons to minimize harm to both human and bird populations.

As Mumbai grapples with this issue, residents are urged to avoid direct contact with pigeon droppings, wear protective masks when cleaning affected areas, and report unsanitary conditions to civic authorities. With the BMC’s ongoing efforts and the MSHRC’s oversight, the city aims to strike a balance between public health and humane urban wildlife management.

Stay tuned to Masala Mirror for the latest updates on Mumbai’s urban challenges and health initiatives.