Bengaluru: The Karnataka Health Department has introduced new regulations to control public pigeon feeding in Bengaluru, allowing the practice only at designated locations managed by authorised non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and during fixed morning hours.

The new guidelines, issued through a circular by Health Commissioner Gurudatta Hegde, are aimed at addressing growing public health concerns linked to uncontrolled pigeon feeding in the city.

Feeding allowed only at designated locations

According to the new bylaws, pigeon feeding will now be permitted only between 7 am and 9 am at designated feeding zones identified by the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) and other municipal corporations.

Authorities said the move is intended to discourage indiscriminate feeding on roads, footpaths, parks and public spaces, while ensuring that the activity is carried out in a regulated manner.

Only authorised NGOs will be allowed to manage these designated feeding zones.

Move aims to improve public health

The Health Department has cited concerns over hygiene, public sanitation and the health risks associated with large pigeon gatherings as key reasons for introducing the restrictions.

Officials believe that concentrated pigeon populations can lead to the accumulation of droppings, creating unhygienic conditions and increasing the risk of disease transmission. The new framework is expected to help balance public sentiment towards feeding birds with the need to maintain cleaner public spaces.

Authorities to identify feeding zones

The Greater Bengaluru Authority and local civic bodies will identify suitable locations where pigeon feeding can continue without affecting public hygiene or causing inconvenience to residents.

Officials are expected to work with authorised NGOs to manage these sites and ensure compliance with the prescribed timings.

The Health Department has urged the public to follow the new guidelines and avoid feeding pigeons outside the designated areas or beyond the permitted hours.

The initiative forms part of the government’s broader efforts to improve sanitation and public health across Bengaluru while promoting responsible urban wildlife management