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Key Points

A school student has petitioned the National Green Tribunal regarding the public health risks posed by airborne dust and pigeon droppings in Delhi-NCR. The plea emphasizes the potential for lung diseases from toxic particles released during street sweeping. The Principal Bench, led by Justice Prakash Shrivastava, addressed the seriousness of the issue, urging governmental response by October. Meanwhile, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi is evaluating a ban on pigeon-feeding to mitigate environmental and health concerns.

Key Points: NGT Hears Plea on Delhi Health Risks from Dust and Pigeon Droppings

  • NGT reviews plea on health impact of dust and droppings
  • Justice Prakash Shrivastava leads the tribunal's inquiry
  • MCD considers banning pigeon-feeding spots in Delhi
  • October proceedings set for government responses
2 min read

National Green Tribunal takes up plea on health hazards from airborne dust and pigeon droppings

School student's plea to NGT highlights health dangers from airborne dust and pigeon droppings in Delhi-NCR.

"Exposure to pollutants can lead to serious lung diseases. - School Student Petition"

New Delhi, June 3

A school student has petitioned the National Green Tribunal (NGT), highlighting the harmful effects of airborne dust generated during street sweeping and its impact on public health. The petition states that the widespread feeding and proliferation of pigeons across Delhi-NCR result in excessive droppings accumulating on footpaths, pavements, and traffic islands.

When these areas are broomed, toxic particles from dried droppings mix with the dust, further polluting the environment and posing significant health risks.

The applicant contends that exposure to these pollutants can lead to serious lung diseases, including hypersensitivity pneumonitis--an inflammatory condition that causes lung scarring and breathing difficulties.

Acknowledging the gravity of the matter, the Principal Bench, headed by Justice Prakash Shrivastava (Chairperson) and Dr. A. Senthil Vel (Expert Member), noted that the petition raises critical concerns regarding compliance with environmental norms.

On May 29, 2025, the tribunal issued notices to the Government of NCT and other relevant authorities, directing them to submit their responses via affidavit. The case has been scheduled for further proceedings in October.

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) is reportedly considering a proposal to ban pigeon-feeding spots across the city due to concerns over health risks associated with the growing pigeon population. If approved, this move could lead to the closure of popular feeding areas commonly found on pavements, roundabouts, and road intersections. Authorities are citing environmental and public health concerns, particularly regarding airborne pollutants from pigeon droppings, as key reasons for the proposal.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
Finally someone is taking this seriously! The pigeon menace in Delhi has become unbearable. Every morning I see people feeding them near metro stations, and within hours the area becomes filthy. NGT should impose strict fines on those feeding pigeons in public spaces. Our health is more important than feeding birds!
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Priya M.
While I appreciate the concern for public health, banning pigeon feeding entirely seems harsh. Many elderly people find joy in feeding birds. Maybe we can designate specific areas away from footpaths? Also, MCD should focus more on mechanized sweeping to reduce dust pollution. The current brooms just kick up more dust! 🌿
A
Amit S.
Kudos to the student who filed this petition! We need more youth involvement in environmental issues. The dust+droppings combo is literally choking Delhi. Last month my mother developed severe breathing problems and the doctor directly blamed air pollution. When will we learn that cleanliness isn't just about Swachh Bharat photoshoots?
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Sunita R.
The real issue is our poor waste management. Pigeons thrive because of food waste everywhere. First clean up the garbage, then pigeons won't have so much to eat. Also, why can't we use water sprinklers before sweeping like other countries? Dry sweeping in 2025 is so outdated! 😤
V
Vikram J.
I'm all for the ban. Walk near any temple or market area and you'll see the problem. But will MCD actually enforce this? They can't even stop illegal construction. Maybe we need RWAs to take charge at local level. Public health should come before sentimental bird feeding.

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