On August 4, the High Court reaffirmed that pigeon feeding poses serious health hazards, particularly due to droppings that can cause respiratory illnesses and infections. PIC/ ATUL KAMBLE
The Court ordered the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to set up an expert committee to thoroughly study the issue and draft a policy prioritising public health
This committee is tasked with examining not only the harmful effects of pigeon droppings on residents and the environment but also assessing whether any form of regulated feeding could be permitted without endangering public health
However, until such a framework is devised, the Court made it clear that the ban will continue to remain in force and that violators should face strict action
Importantly, the High Court refused to grant interim relief to those seeking permission to feed pigeons, underlining that safeguarding public health outweighs any cultural or sentimental considerations attached to the practice
The Supreme Court also declined to intervene in the matter, effectively endorsing the High Court’s stance
The apex court’s refusal to interfere reinforces the judiciary’s view that unchecked pigeon feeding is a civic hazard
The continued defiance by some residents at Bandra Talav highlights both the challenge of enforcement and the deep-rooted tradition of feeding pigeons in Mumbai, which many associate with religious or cultural beliefs
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