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New Delhi: The Karnataka government is moving to regulate and where necessary prohibit pigeon feeding in public spaces, over growing public health concerns linked to bird droppings and feathers.
The Health and Family Welfare Department has warned that unchecked pigeon feeding has led to an uncontrolled increase in bird populations, particularly in urban areas, resulting in respiratory illnesses and other health hazards.
In an official note, the department has directed the Urban Development Department to instruct the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) and all municipal corporations to enforce stringent measures. These include a complete ban on pigeon feeding at locations where it poses a public nuisance or health risk, the creation of designated feeding zones managed only by recognised NGOs or charitable organisations, and restrictions on feeding hours to prevent large congregations of birds.
The government has also called for strict enforcement, including on-the-spot warnings, fines and prosecution under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for acts that could contribute to the spread of infectious diseases.
Officials pointed out that similar steps were taken in Mumbai after the Bombay High Court ordered the sealing of pigeon-feeding enclosures, or kabutarkhanas, to address public nuisance and health risks.
Health authorities said adequate legal provisions already exist under the BNS, 2023, the GBA Act, 2025, and the Karnataka Municipal Corporations Act, 1976, empowering local bodies to act in the interest of public health.
While the move is driven by safety concerns, officials acknowledged that it could trigger debate among animal welfare groups and regular bird feeders.
