In a scenario reminiscent of the iconic Bollywood film ‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge,’ where Shah Rukh Khan beckoned pigeons with calls of “Aao Aao Aao,” the innocent act of feeding these birds has now been tied to significant health hazards in Pune.
Recent findings suggest that feeding pigeons could lead to various respiratory illnesses, particularly affecting vulnerable groups like children and the elderly.
A resident of Hinjawadi elucidated on the dangers, highlighting the potential for respiratory diseases such as Psittacosis, a flu-like illness transmitted through infected birds, often resulting in pneumonia or lung infections. Additionally, he shed light on Bird Fancier’s Lung, a rare condition triggered by antigens present in bird droppings.
Another resident drew attention to the burgeoning pigeon population, noting their dominance in the avian ecosystem due to the absence of natural predators. This unchecked growth has displaced numerous other bird species, including the dwindling population of sparrows.
Echoing these concerns, a resident of Wagholi emphasized the nuisance caused by pigeons congregating in large numbers and leaving behind acidic droppings, posing sanitation challenges and health risks. Medical experts caution against feeding pigeons in residential areas due to the associated health hazards.
In response to the escalating issue, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is gearing up for action. A PMC official stressed the importance of raising public awareness, particularly among senior citizens, urging the populace to refrain from pigeon feeding.
A senior PMC official outlined plans to tackle the problem head-on by implementing fines and penalties for individuals engaging in pigeon feeding. PMC’s initiative aims to deter this practice and safeguard public health in urban environments.
