Row Over Mumbai Kabootar Khanas Intensifies, Court Halts BMC's Demolition Drive
Over the past year, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and the city’s health department have reported a significant increase in cases of lung infections.
Several "kabootar khanas" (pigeon feeding zones) in Mumbai established during the British era in areas like Dadar, Girgaon, and Marine Drive are now at the centre of a public health debate. Once seen as acts of religious merit and community tradition, these spots have come under scrutiny following a surge in health-related complaints.
Over the past year, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and the city’s health department have reported a significant increase in cases of lung infections, allergic reactions, and fungal diseases, particularly among the elderly. Medical reports have confirmed infections caused by exposure to pigeon droppings.
Timeline Of The Crackdown
May–June 2025
Several citizens and medical professionals labelled kabootarkhanas as a “public health hazard.”
BJP MLC Pravin Darekar raised the issue in the Maharashtra Legislative Council, claiming that his aunt’s death was caused by pigeon-related illness.
3 July 2025
The Maharashtra government ordered the immediate closure of 51 kabootarkhanas in Mumbai.
A fine of Rs 500 was imposed on those caught feeding pigeons.
A city-wide public awareness campaign was launched.
5–12 July 2025
BMC intensified its drive, collecting Rs 61,900 in fines from 107 violators.
Raids were conducted in areas like Dadar, Girgaon, Santacruz, and Dongri.
Bags of grain and illegal structures in pigeon zones were seized and demolished.
10 July 2025
BMC began converting some kabootarkhana sites into Miyawaki gardens and traffic circles.
11 July 2025
A petition was filed in the Bombay High Court, arguing that the demolitions violated religious freedom and cultural heritage. The court issued a temporary stay on demolitions, asking BMC to submit scientific evidence supporting the health risks.
13 July 2025
The Maharashtra Human Rights Commission (MHRC) issued notices to BMC and the state health secretary, demanding solid medical data to justify the action.
BMC’s drive continues, although the High Court’s interim order has halted demolition at several sites. The next hearing is scheduled for 23 July, where experts from KEM Hospital, BMC officials, and MHRC representatives will present their findings.
While religious groups and trusts argue that kabootarkhanas are matters of faith, many local residents are prioritising public health and sanitation. The issue has now become a contentious debate between religious tradition and public health safety, with the final decision resting on expert testimony and court judgment.
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