Mumbai Seeks Public Opinion on Pigeon Feeding at Kabutar Khanna

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has opened a window for public input on the contentious issue of pigeon feeding in the city. From August 18 to 29, residents can submit suggestions or objections regarding whether structured feeding should be permitted at designated times, marking a rare instance of public consultation in the matter.

This development follows a two-month ban imposed by the civic body on feeding pigeons in public areas due to rising health and sanitation concerns. The situation escalated to a legal level, prompting the Bombay High Court to direct the BMC to invite public feedback before making any policy decisions. The court also stressed the need for a balanced resolution that respects both public health and animal welfare.

Currently, the BMC has received three applications that support controlled feeding. These come from the Dadar Kabutarkhana Trust Board, Yasmin Bhansali & Company, and Pallavi Patil. Their proposals are now publicly available on the BMC’s website for viewing.

Among the voices in favor, Pallavi Patil has highlighted the importance of continuing to feed and hydrate pigeons at established spots, such as traditional kabutarkhanas and naturally occurring congregation zones.

The invitation for feedback marks a pivotal moment in this long-standing dispute. Offering Mumbaikars a formal avenue to shape civic policy on the coexistence of humans and urban wildlife. Whether authorities will move forward with regulated, humane feeding zones will now partly depend on the views shared during this consultation period.