Bangkok bans feeding pigeons

BANGKOK, Sept 20 (TNA) – Bangkok governor Aswin Kwanmuang ordered 50 districts to create understanding among public members to stop feeding pigeons or to face a maximum fine of 25,000 baht. He said the urgent measure is to make people realize that the pigeons are the vectors of diseases. They can transmit diseases such as Encephalitis and respiratory diseases to man via their droppings. Strict control will be stepped up at schools, temples and locations where complaints were lodged about regular feeding for the large number of pigeons. In the long-term, all district offices will conduct surveys on the spots, where many pigeons are found. Related agencies will be contacted to capture the birds there for releasing them back into the wild. Feeding pigeon violates the Maintenance of the Cleanliness and Orderliness of the Country Act, B.E. 2535 with a fine of 2,000 baht and the Public Health Act, B.E. 2535 with the punishment of three months in jail or a maximum fine of 25,000 baht or both. (TNA)