Maharashtra Govt To Shut Down Kabutarkhanas In Mumbai, Plans 'Pigeon Parks' On City Outskirts To Curb Health Risks

The Maharashtra government has decided to shut down pigeon feeding zones (kabutarkhanas) across Mumbai to curb the spread of serious diseases caused by pigeon droppings. However, to manage the displaced bird population and avoid nuisance in residential areas, the government plans to establish dedicated Pigeon Parks outside urban settlements.

Industries Minister Uday Samant informed the Maharashtra Legislative Council that the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) will be instructed to identify suitable locations on the outskirts of the city to develop these parks, where pigeons can be fed and managed properly.

Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) MLA Sunil Shinde raised the issue under Rule 93, expressing concern that, following the closure of kabutarkhanas, pigeons might seek shelter in residential buildings, leading to health risks and inconvenience for citizens. "Diseases such as tuberculosis have been linked to pigeon droppings, and there have been cases of deaths due to such infections," Shinde stated.

Responding to this, Minister Samant acknowledged the severity of the issue. "There is a report from KEM Hospital that confirms pigeon droppings are responsible for several health issues. Public representatives have consistently demanded the closure of kabutarkhanas in Mumbai," he said.

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"We cannot educate pigeons to avoid populated areas. If feeding is stopped without alternatives, large flocks may enter housing colonies and cause greater problems. Therefore, to control this, the BMC will be directed to explore setting up Pigeon Parks outside residential areas, where the birds can be fed and cared for properly," Samant added.

The proposed parks aim to balance public health concerns with humane treatment of the birds, ensuring that neither citizens nor the city’s bird population suffer as a result of the government's decision.