Mumbai: Govt Orders Immediate Shutdown of ‘Kabootar Khanas’ Over Health Concerns

The Maharashtra government on Friday directed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to immediately shut down all ‘kabootar khanas’, designated feeding spots for pigeons, across Mumbai, citing serious health hazards linked to pigeon droppings and feathers.

The move comes after Shiv Sena leader and nominated MLC Manisha Kayande raised the issue in the Maharashtra Legislative Council on Thursday. She highlighted that these pigeon-feeding zones pose a grave risk to residents, especially those living nearby, as the accumulation of bird waste and feathers can lead to respiratory illnesses.

Echoing the concern, BJP leader and Council member Chitra Wagh shared a personal loss, stating her aunt had succumbed to a respiratory disease caused by constant exposure to pigeon droppings.

In response, Minister Uday Samant, speaking on behalf of Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, revealed that there are currently 51 operational ‘kabootar khanas’ in the city. He confirmed that the civic body would be instructed to begin an awareness campaign within a month, followed by immediate action to shut down these feeding sites.

“There’s a misconception that feeding pigeons is harmless or spiritual. In reality, it’s contributing to serious health issues. In some areas like Girgaum Chowpatty, pigeons have been seen scavenging on leftover fast food like pizzas and burgers, which is also not healthy for them,” said Samant.

The issue also highlights a larger civic concern, the lack of compliance despite previous closures. Samant noted that the iconic Dadar ‘kabootar khana’ had been shut down temporarily but resumed activity after citizens continued to feed the birds.

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In a written reply, Shinde confirmed that unauthorised ‘kabootar khanas’ in Santacruz East and Daulat Nagar had already been shut down. These locations have since been redeveloped into traffic islands and Miyawaki gardens by the BMC.

Authorities have urged citizens to cooperate with the decision and understand the long-term health benefits of discontinuing the practice of feeding pigeons in public places.