India, July 4 -- The state government has directed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to take strict action against unauthorised kabootar khanas across the city, following concerns that these pigeon feeding zones pose serious health risks and encroach on public spaces.

The issue was raised in the legislative council on Thursday by Shiv Sena (UBT) MLC Manisha Kayande, who said illegal kabootar khanas had mushroomed across Mumbai, converting footpaths into pigeon shelters and causing respiratory ailments among residents.

"In Mahim, one such feeding spot was set up illegally on Lady Jamshedji Road. In Dadar West, there's a kabootar khana right on a Grade II heritage structure. It's illegal, and people living nearby have protested...