The Maharashtra government has directed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to stop pigeon feeding in the city with immediate effect and launch a drive to create awareness among feeders about the ill-effect it has on the health of the residents living in the nearby areas.

Maharashtra Minister Uday Samant has assured the members of the legislative council that the government will issue directives directing the BMC to immediately close all the pigeon feeding areas within Mumbai's limits.

“Currently, there are 51 locations in Mumbai where pigeons are fed. We will ask the civic body to immediately put an end to pigeon feeding at these locations,” Samant said on Thursday.