Health v heritage: Pigeon feeding ban sparks debate in India

In Mumbai, India, a new ban on feeding pigeons in public places has sparked a heated debate between city officials, health experts, and people who love birds. The ban was put in place because of worries about health risks from pigeon droppings, which can cause serious lung problems and other diseases. This issue is not just happening in Mumbai. Other cities in India, like Pune and Thane, have also made rules against feeding pigeons, and places like Venice, Singapore, New York, and London have similar bans or restrictions. The ban in Mumbai led to big protests. Hundreds of people gathered to show their anger, and some even fought with the police. At one famous pigeon feeding spot, called a kabutarkhana, people tore down covers and threatened to go on a hunger strike. Kabutarkhanas are special places where people have fed pigeons for decades, and they are seen as part of Mumbai's heritage. The Jain community, a religious group in Mumbai, has been especially vocal. For them, feeding pigeons is a religious duty and a way to show kindness. Many people in India feel a strong connection to pigeons, seeing them as symbols of peace and loyalty. Syed Ismat, a man in Delhi, has been feeding pigeons for 40 years and says he thinks of them as his family. However, health experts warn that the growing number of pigeons is causing problems. Studies show that pigeon droppings can contain bacteria, viruses, and fungi that lead to diseases like pneumonia and lung infections. Some people have gotten very sick from being exposed to pigeon droppings for a long time. Doctors say that even if you do not feed pigeons, their droppings on windows and balconies can still make you sick. This is why Mumbai's city officials decided to ban feeding pigeons and started closing down feeding centers. The Bombay High Court supported the ban, saying that public health is the most important thing and ordering strict action against illegal feeding. Delhi's mayor also said that while loving birds is good, it should not come at the cost of people's health. He pointed out that feeding spots often get dirty and attract pests. Despite these concerns, many animal lovers disagree with the ban. Mohammad Younus, who supplies grain to a feeding spot in Delhi, argues that all animals can spread diseases if hygiene is not maintained. He says he has been surrounded by pigeons for 15 years and has never gotten sick. In Mumbai, a Jain monk warned that thousands of pigeons could die of hunger because of the ban. Animal rights activists also say that the rules are unclear and people do not know how the ban will be enforced. Some people are trying to find a compromise. Ujjwal Agrain, from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals India, suggests allowing pigeon feeding only during set morning and evening hours. This would give city workers time to clean up and keep the area safe. The Bombay High Court has set up an expert panel to suggest alternatives, and city officials say they might allow controlled feeding based on the panel's advice. Syed Ismat believes that people need to rethink how they share cities with birds and other animals. He says it is important to find ways for people and wildlife to live together peacefully. The debate over feeding pigeons in Mumbai shows how difficult it can be to balance public health with cultural and religious traditions. People are still searching for a solution that respects both sides.