Possible ban on feeding pigeons near Mysuru Palace as MP Wadiyar convenes meet to discuss damage to heritage structure

Mysuru: Mysore-Kodagu MP Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja (YKC) Wadiyar has convened a meeting to elicit public opinion on a possible ban on feeding pigeons near the North Gate of Mysuru Palace, at 8 am on Sunday, September 22.

The public meeting, presided over by the MP, will be held at Sri Kote Anjaneya Swamy temple, near the North Gate of Mysuru Palace.

Mysuru City Police Commissioner Seema Latkar and Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) Commissioner Ashad Ur Rehman Sheriff are expected to participate.

According to the press note from the MP’s office, the meeting has been convened, following pleas by several organisations, seeking a ban on feeding of pigeons, as their droppings are a threat to the heritage structures in the vicinity, including the Palce itself, and also to the health of the people.

Deccan Herald had published a report in this regard, ‘Loft of pigeons a threat to heritage structure: experts’ way back on June 24, 2020.

Earlier, in the last week of June, then Deputy Commissioner Dr K V Rajendra had directed the officials concerned, to regulate the feeding of pigeons with foodgrains, near the North Gate, on Albert Victor Road.

He had told the officials that an increase in the feeding of pigeons, with food grains there, is not just affecting the birds, but it is also leading to wastage of food grains.

Screenshot of original DH story on the pigeon menace. 

“It is hampering cleanliness and affecting the beauty of the Palace. Also, pigeon droppings on the roof of Mysuru Palace are affecting the structure. It is good that several people come to take selfies and photographs with the pigeons, when they fly together. Apart from Jain institutions, Helping Hands and Jiv Daya, which supply two sacks of foodgrains per day for the pigeons, tourists and general public also feed them. This has led to an increase in the number of pigeons. Mysuru Palace Board must coordinate with the MCC, in maintaining cleanliness and in regulating those who feed the birds there,” he had said.