Bombay HC Orders Closure of Kabootarkhanas, FIRs Against Pigeon Feeders

The Bombay High Court has recently passed a judgment directing the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to take strict action against individuals who feed pigeons in public spaces. The court’s decision comes in response to a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by a city-based activist, highlighting the menace caused by the large population of pigeons in Mumbai. The petitioner argued that the feeding of pigeons leads to the spread of diseases such as histoplasmosis, cryptococcosis, and psittacosis, which can be harmful to humans. The court noted that the BMC had failed to take effective measures to control the pigeon population, despite being aware of the issue. The judges observed that the feeding of pigeons is not only a nuisance but also a health hazard, as the birds’ droppings can contaminate water and soil. The court directed the BMC to register FIRs against individuals found feeding pigeons and to take steps to prevent the feeding of pigeons in public spaces. The BMC has been asked to create awareness about the ill effects of feeding pigeons and to involve citizens in the efforts to control the pigeon population. The court also ordered the closure of kabootarkhanas, which are structures built to feed and house pigeons. The kabootarkhanas have been found to be breeding grounds for pigeons, contributing to the growing population. The BMC has been given a deadline to comply with the court’s orders and to submit a report on the actions taken. The court’s decision has been welcomed by residents and activists, who have been complaining about the pigeon menace for years. The feeding of pigeons has been a long-standing issue in Mumbai, with many residents and visitors feeding the birds in public spaces. However, the court’s judgment is expected to bring some respite to the city’s residents, who have been suffering from the noise, filth, and health hazards caused by the pigeons. The BMC has assured the court that it will take immediate action to comply with the orders and to address the concerns raised by the petitioner. The court’s decision is also expected to have a positive impact on the environment, as the reduction in pigeon population will lead to a decrease in the amount of waste generated by the birds. The judges have also suggested that the BMC explore alternative methods to control the pigeon population, such as birth control measures and relocation of the birds to more suitable habitats. The court’s judgment has set a precedent for other cities to follow, highlighting the need for effective measures to control the population of pigeons and other birds that can be a nuisance to humans. The decision is also expected to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in public spaces. The BMC has been asked to work with other agencies, such as the forest department and the animal welfare board, to implement the court’s orders and to find a long-term solution to the pigeon menace. The court’s judgment has been hailed as a victory for the residents of Mumbai, who have been fighting against the pigeon menace for years. The decision is expected to bring some relief to the city’s residents, who have been suffering from the noise, filth, and health hazards caused by the pigeons. The BMC has assured the court that it will take all necessary steps to comply with the orders and to address the concerns raised by the petitioner.

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