In Thai capital, hit by bird flu, pigeon feeders could face jail
The Thai capital is considering jailing people who feed pigeons in public to try to eliminate the risk of bird flu and other diseases, officials said on Wednesday.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration is spearheading a campaign to catch pigeons and has vowed to impose a ban on feeding them — violators could be jailed for up to three months, face a 25,000 baht ($770) fine, or both.
"There's a risk to humans in places where there is a high concentration of pigeons," Taweesak Lertprapan, deputy Bangkok governor, told Reuters as bird catchers caught pigeons around him at a public square.
Other cities around the world have imposed similar bans, including Italian tourist favorite Venice, where feeding pigeons is illegal — but there is no threat of serving time.
In Bangkok, pigeons — often dubbed "rats with wings" — are often found in crowded areas, including temples, markets and public parks.
Taweesak said health risks from pigeons include respiratory diseases, meningitis and bird flu.
"The most effective solution is to stop feeding them," Taweesak said.
Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha this month ordered a nationwide campaign to reduce the number of pigeons in populated areas.
(Source: Reuters)
New Zealand: Maori MPs protest in parliament with Haka war dance
Malaysia working on resolution to expel Israel from United Nations
Ambassador: Japan studying recognition of State of Palestine
Resistance movements condemn Israeli killing of Hezbollah spokesman
Biden allows Ukraine to use US missiles to strike inside Russia: Sources
OIC condemns Israel’s war crimes against Palestinians in Gaza
Iran FM slams reported EU plans to impose sanctions on IRISL
VIDEO | Press TV's News Headlines
Lebanon army says Israeli attack kills two soldiers in south
Iran launches renovation project at its main oil export terminal
Trump's re-election will not affect Iran-China strategic ties: Leader’s aide
PressTV NEWSLETTER
now
This makes it easy to access the Press TV website
