The Mirpur administration in Azad Jammu-et-Cachemire (AJK) has imposed a ban on the installation of pigeon or cages on residential and commercial buildings in urban areas, invoking concerns about law and order.
While spring brings beauty and greenery to Mirpur, it also sparked an increase in pigeon racing activities, the young locals spending the night and the night taking care of their birds on the roofs. However, these activities have sometimes led to violent disputes, young people who do not take confidentiality and engage in clashes, some of which have turned into violence.
On several occasions, such altercations have involved the use of weapons, resulting in several injuries. In response to these incidents, the district administration has taken measures, hoping that the new prohibition will limit such events and restore peace.
The Yasir Riaz district magistrate announced the prohibition under article 188 of the Pakistan penal code, which prohibits the installation of pigeon cages, platforms or boxes on the roofs in the district.
“Residents, especially young people, often place bets on pigeon races at various times of the day and night, which sometimes leads to violent conflicts,” said Riaz.
The prohibition will be applied for two months, although Riaz clarified that it does not extend to flying pigeons in the city. Residents are always allowed to keep the pigeons inside their home, but the practice of keeping them on the roofs is prohibited.
While the pigeon races itself remain non-banned, Riaz warned that a strict legal action will be taken if the game is involved in these breeds, in accordance with the relevant laws.
Local resident Aqib Ahmed expressed support for the district administration’s decision, saying the ban will help reduce violent incidents associated with pigeon race in the region.
The administration of the Mirpur district also referred to a similar ban on Punjab, but during verification, it was noted that there is no general prohibition in the province. Restrictions exist in certain cities in Punjab near airports and air bases, where pigeon cages are limited for security reasons, but the general ban mentioned by Mirpur officials does not apply to the whole province.
