Pune: PMC Cracks Down On Pigeon Feeding, Fines 52 Individuals In December 2024
To Feed or Not to Feed: Urban India’s Growing Pigeon Dilemma and Its Impact on Health, Heritage, and Habits
The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has intensified its drive against pigeon feeding in public spaces, taking action against 52 individuals in December and collecting a penalty of ₹35,160. According to officials, pigeon feeding in public places attracts a fine of ₹500, which can increase with repeated violations.
The PMC’s solid waste management (SWM) department has identified 20 locations across the city as vulnerable to pigeon feeding. These locations include Airport Road, Nagpur Chawl, Bund Garden Flyover, and Saras Baugh, among others. The civic body claims to have stopped pigeon feeding at six of these locations, including Katke School and Katraj Chowk.
The PMC’s crackdown on pigeon feeding is part of a broader effort to address public health concerns associated with the growing pigeon population. Dr. Sanjay Gaikwad, head of the chest department at BJ Medical College and Sassoon General Hospital while speaking to the media person, warned that pigeons can carry microorganisms that trigger lung inflammation and even cause hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP), a condition that can lead to irreversible lung damage.
The PMC has urged citizens to cooperate with authorities and follow the rules. Sandip Kadam, head of the SWM department, said that the action against pigeon feeding will continue, and the department will work to educate citizens about the risks associated with feeding pigeons in public spaces.
