Karnataka issues guidelines to regulate pigeon feeding in public places
Karnataka's Health Department has issued new guidelines to regulate pigeon feeding in public spaces to mitigate health risks like respiratory damage. Feeding will now be restricted to designated areas managed by authorized organizations during specific morning hours.
Why it matters
This illustrates the intersection of public health policy and urban management, addressing the challenges of managing wildlife in densely populated cities.
The State Health Department has for the second time issued directions to regulate pigeon feeding in public places, citing concerns over public health risks.
Uncontrolled feeding leads to large congregations of birds and excessive droppings. Exposure to pigeon feathers may lead to severe and sometimes irreversible lung damage, especially among vulnerable groups including children, the elderly and persons with pre-existing respiratory conditions.
The circular issued on Thursday (July 23) by the State Health Commissioner, directs the Commissioner of the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) and Commissioners and Chief Officers of other municipal corporations to take measures to mitigate the causes of disease-spread linked to pigeons.
The directions have been issued under the provisions of the Greater Bengaluru Governance Act, 2024, and the Karnataka Municipal Corporations Act, 1976.
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