The famous pigeon feeding structure at Dadar has once again become a topic of discussion. The Dadar pigeon house, or “Kabutarkhana,” has been shut since August last year, and the tarpaulin-covered structure currently looks unsightly, leading to growing public dissatisfaction. As a result, the Shiv Sena (Thackeray faction) has demanded that the area be used for road widening.
During last year’s monsoon session, the state government directed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to immediately launch a drive to shut down pigeon feeding spots across Mumbai. Following these instructions, the civic body took action against the well-known Dadar Kabutarkhana the very next day. Illegal constructions above the structure were demolished, food kept for pigeons was removed, and the entire area was sealed with tarpaulin.
Some bird lovers challenged the action in the High Court, after which hearings on the matter continued for several months. Since then, the Kabutarkhana has remained covered with tarpaulin. The anger among members of the Jain community, which had initially surfaced after the closure, has now largely subsided. However, the issue has once again come into the spotlight.
Shiv Sena (Thackeray faction) MLA Mahesh Sawant has written a letter to Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Bhide regarding the matter. He stated that, in accordance with court orders and considering public health concerns, the pigeon house was shut down. However, the tarpaulin-covered structure has now become an eyesore and is causing resentment among citizens. He has demanded appropriate action and measures for road widening at the site. Attention is now focused on what decision the civic administration will take.
The famous Kabutarkhana in Dadar West is considered one of Mumbai’s landmarks, and the surrounding area itself is popularly known as Dadar Kabutarkhana. The structure is regarded as historic. However, demands to remove it have gained momentum in recent years. Similar demands had also intensified a few months ago, though no concrete action was taken then. Eventually, after the state government issued directives last year, the G North Ward office of the municipal corporation acted against the structure.
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