Pigeons ruffle feathers in House

MAPUSA
In an unexpected twist to the ongoing monsoon session, pigeons found themselves at the centre of a serious – albeit slightly feather-ruffling – discussion in the Goa Legislative Assembly.

Raising the issue with a mix of concern and exasperation, Goa Forward Party MLA Vijai Sardesai said the unchecked rise in pigeon populations across Goa’s urban areas had become more than just a nuisance – it was now a public health threat.

“We are literally breathing infection,” Sardesai said, pointing to the presence of pigeons not just in city areas like Margao but even within the hallowed premises of the Legislative Assembly building itself.

While pigeons are often viewed as harmless, even charming city dwellers, Sardesai warned that their droppings and nesting habits were hazardous, especially in crowded residential neighbourhoods and public buildings. “There’s a serious problem in urban areas. People are worried. The government needs to take this seriously,” he said.

Drawing comparisons with neighbouring Maharashtra, the MLA noted that the State had recognised the gravity of the issue and moved to ban ‘kabutar khanas’ – designated pigeon feeding zones. “Goa too should consider banning the public feeding of pigeons before the problem grows wings,” he quipped.

In Margao, Sardesai said, balconies and building ledges have turned into pigeon party spots, leaving behind a mess that’s anything but coo-worthy. The issue, while eliciting a few smiles in the House, was underscored by serious health concerns.

Pigeon droppings are known to carry pathogens that can cause respiratory infections, and prolonged exposure in enclosed urban spaces has raised alarm bells among health experts in several Indian cities.

While the government has not yet responded with any concrete action plan, the MLA’s feathered complaint has certainly ensured that pigeons – often ignored or romanticised – are now officially on the legislative radar.

Whether this leads to a policy or just more pigeon talk, remains to be seen.