The Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) is set to launch a special drive under its Animal Birth Control (ABC) programme, marking a significant step in managing the stray dog population in the twin cities. As part of this initiative, the civic body has established an exclusive sterilisation centre for stray dogs at Shivalli village near Hubballi, designed to substantially increase daily surgical capacity.
Addressing the Sterilisation Backlog
For years, HDMC struggled to scale up its sterilisation efforts, with daily numbers limited to around 35 to 40 dogs. With the new facility now ready, the corporation plans to raise this to at least 100 procedures per day. This capacity is expected to be among the highest in the state and is likely to provide a strong boost to the implementation of the ABC programme.
State-of-the-Art Facility
The newly built centre has been designed exclusively for sterilisation and related care. Spread over nearly 380 square metres, it is equipped for both pre-operative and post-operative management of animals. Officials have stated that the infrastructure ensures smoother handling of the entire process, from admission and preparation to surgery and recovery.
Supporting facilities, including water supply, a doctor's cabin, kennels, and essential amenities, have also been put in place. The focus is not only on increasing the number of surgeries but also on ensuring proper care and monitoring before and after procedures.
Official Statement
HDMC commissioner Rudresh Ghali confirmed that construction of the Shivalli facility is complete, and only a formal inauguration remains. Once launched, it will enable the corporation to implement the ABC programme on a much larger scale. He added that the initiative is seen as a key civic intervention for scientific stray dog control, improved public health, and systematic implementation of animal welfare measures within city limits.
