Nearly a year after the iconic Dadar Kabutar Khana was shut down following the Maharashtra government's ban on pigeon feeding, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is planning to give the landmark a visual makeover.
The civic body intends to replace the temporary tarpaulin covering the enclosure with transparent acrylic sheets and introduce greenery beneath the structure to improve its overall appearance. Officials have clarified that the revamp is purely cosmetic and will not alter the existing ban on feeding pigeons.
The Dadar Kabutar Khana was covered with tarpaulin in August last year after the state government directed the closure of all 51 kabutar khanas across Mumbai. As part of the enforcement drive, the BMC also confiscated pigeon feed stored at the site to ensure the ban was implemented effectively.
According to officials from the G-North ward, the proposed changes are aimed at making the space more visually appealing while preserving the heritage value of the structure.
"We plan to replace the tarpaulin with transparent acrylic sheets and add plants underneath to enhance the aesthetics. Apart from this, no other changes are planned, and the prohibition on pigeon feeding will remain in place," a civic official said.
Authorities have also ruled out relocating the kabutar khana, noting that it houses a heritage structure that cannot be shifted. Earlier this year, Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Mahesh Sawant had suggested moving the landmark to help reduce traffic congestion at the busy Dadar junction.
The closure of the pigeon feeding site has been welcomed by many local residents, who have long expressed concerns over the health risks linked to pigeon droppings and feathers. Several residents had even installed protective nets on their windows and balconies to keep pigeons away from their homes.
While locals have welcomed the proposed facelift, they have also stressed that the ban on pigeon feeding should remain in force. Local corporator Yashwant Killedar supported the plan, stating that the tarpaulin covering has diminished the landmark's appearance and that replacing it with a more attractive alternative would significantly improve the site.
Once completed, the makeover is expected to retain the heritage charm of the Dadar Kabutar Khana while giving one of Mumbai's most recognisable public landmarks a cleaner and more appealing look.