In cities across India, pigeons are an everyday sight. Perched on balconies, feeding in city squares, and flapping through morning skies, they’re often seen as harmless companions—or even sacred. But increasing medical evidence shows they may pose a serious health risk.
Recent cases from hospitals like Sir Ganga Ram in Delhi reveal a spike in hypersensitivity pneumonitis—a rare lung disease linked to long-term exposure to pigeon droppings and feathers. Fungi found in the droppings, such as Aspergillus and Cryptococcus, can inflame the lungs, eventually leading to lung fibrosis, a potentially irreversible condition.
A Quiet but Growing Threat
The danger is not dramatic or instant. This isn’t a viral outbreak—it’s a slow, silent process. Residents—especially the elderly, children, or those with respiratory conditions—can unknowingly inhale airborne particles from dried pigeon droppings. Over time, this exposure can trigger inflammation in the lungs, progressing into fibrosis if untreated.
In Delhi alone, pulmonologists have reported dozens of such cases in recent months. The problem is particularly acute in households or buildings where balconies are used by pigeons to nest and defecate—and where regular feeding encourages their overpopulation.
What’s Causing the Surge?
Experts point to three major causes:
- Urban overpopulation of pigeons, especially in megacities like Delhi and Mumbai.
- Cultural and religious feeding practices attract large flocks to public areas and residential buildings.
- A widespread lack of awareness about the health dangers of close and prolonged exposure to pigeon droppings.
While many may find the idea of pigeon-linked disease surprising or minor, doctors warn it could soon become a serious urban public health issue if not addressed promptly.
Small Interventions, Big Impact
There is hope. In cities like Hyderabad, community-level interventions have helped reduce exposure. Balcony netting, duct sealing, and awareness campaigns have shown promising results. Safe cleaning practices—such as using bleach and wearing N95 masks while handling droppings—are also encouraged.
The Road Ahead: Protecting Urban Lung Health
To prevent an emerging crisis, experts are calling for:
- Targeted public awareness campaigns on pigeon-related respiratory risks.
- Enforcement of feeding bans in dense residential and market areas.
- Investment in cleanup infrastructure to manage droppings in public spaces.
- Collaboration between municipal authorities, health departments, and communities.
This isn’t just about birds. It’s about the air we breathe, the cities we live in, and the health of millions. As pigeon populations rise and cities sprawl outward, it’s time for urban India to wake up to a new kind of health challenge—one that sits quietly on our balconies, waiting to be noticed.
Because in the battle for healthier lungs, awareness is just the beginning.
