Pune: PMC Cracks Down on Feeding Pigeons in Open Areas Amid Health Concerns; Awareness Drive Launched

Pune, 4th December 2024: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is ramping up efforts to curb the feeding of pigeons and other birds in open spaces following numerous complaints about the health risks associated with the practice. Despite previous warnings, many residents continue to feed grains to birds in public areas, exacerbating health concerns linked to pigeon droppings and feather dust.

Doctors have raised alarms about the health impact of pigeon droppings, which can trigger respiratory diseases such as hypersensitive pneumonia, asthma, and fungal infections. These particles, when inhaled, can severely affect the lungs, potentially leading to lung failure in extreme cases. Health officials are concerned that the unchecked feeding of pigeons is contributing to a rise in respiratory illnesses in the city.

PMC had earlier appealed to citizens to avoid feeding birds in open areas and warned of potential penalties. However, the practice continues in several parts of the city, including Bibvewadi’s Dolphin Chowk on Swami Vivekananda Road, where the Road Department had even set up designated bird-feeding zones. Intended as a beautification measure, this initiative has ironically led to an increase in pigeon-related issues in the area.

In response, the PMC’s Health Department has begun installing awareness boards throughout the city, urging residents to refrain from feeding birds in public spaces. The corporation has also reiterated its warning of penal action against those found dumping grains on roads.

“The droppings and feather dust from pigeons contain harmful elements that, when inhaled, can lead to serious lung infections,” said a PMC health official. “We are urging citizens to take responsibility and prevent these health risks.”

As part of the renewed campaign, the PMC is focusing on educating the public about the dangers of feeding birds in open areas and promises stricter enforcement of regulations. Residents, especially in areas where pigeon feeding is prevalent, hope the corporation’s efforts will mitigate the issue and reduce the health risks to the community.