Pune: PMC Cracks Down on Pigeon Feeding, Fines Imposed and Key Spots Identified
Pune, December 09, 2024: In a bid to address health concerns and maintain city hygiene, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has intensified its campaign against pigeon feeding. Over the last four days, the corporation has fined three individuals and identified 20 hotspots across Pune where the practice is prevalent.
Health Risks from Pigeon Feeding
Pigeon feathers and droppings are known to spread germs that can lead to hypersensitive pneumonia, a lung-related disease. Acting on citizen complaints, PMC has mapped key areas where pigeon feeding is common, including Warje Malwadi, Sarasbaug, Swargate, and the Vishrambaug-Kasba Wada area, which accounts for five prominent spots like Apte Ghat and Juna Bazar.
Fines and Awareness Efforts
PMC has collected fines totaling ₹1,700 in the past four days: ₹1,000 in Narayan Peth, ₹500 in Warje, and ₹200 in Sarasbaug. Fines for fouling public places range from ₹500 to ₹5,000. Deputy Commissioner of the Solid Waste Department, Sandeep Kadam, stated, “The number of pigeons has increased due to people feeding them grains. Despite awareness efforts, cases persist, so we have started imposing fines.”
Teams from PMC’s 15 regional offices patrol key areas during peak feeding hours and engage with citizens to discourage the practice. A cleanliness drive is also underway to address areas affected by pigeon droppings.
Spotlight on Feeding Locations
PMC has identified several prominent feeding spots across Pune, including:
- Vishrambaug Wada: Apte Ghat, Ashtabhuja Ghat, Sarasbaug Statue
- Shivajinagar: Patil Estate
- Dhole Patil Road: Bund Garden flyover
- Other Areas: Katraj Chowk, Pan Card Club Road, Dolphin Chowk
PMC Commissioner Rajendra Bhosale emphasized the importance of stringent action against violators while continuing public education efforts. “The campaign will continue for the next few days to ensure public health and hygiene,” he said.
