In a significant move to enhance road safety and protect its canine population, the Agra Municipal Corporation (AMC) has rolled out a special drive. The initiative involves fitting stray dogs with radium-coated reflective collars to make them visible to drivers at night and during dense fog.
Targeting High-Risk Zones for Maximum Impact
Over a two-day period starting Wednesday, teams from the civic body successfully equipped approximately 300 stray dogs with these life-saving collars. The effort was strategically focused on areas notorious for accidents, including Dayalbagh and Sanjay Place. By concentrating on these identified high-risk zones, the AMC aims to address the root of the problem effectively.
A Proactive Step Based on Data
Dr. Ajay Singh, the Animal Welfare Officer of AMC, explained the rationale behind the drive. He stated that stray dogs frequently become victims of road accidents, especially under low-visibility conditions. "Vehicle headlights reflect off these radium-coated collars, making the dogs visible from a distance," Dr. Singh said. The initiative is a data-driven response, as the corporation regularly receives reports of injured dogs. "Based on accident data, we identified high-risk areas and are concentrating our efforts there," he emphasised.
A Sustained Effort with Community Involvement
Officials have confirmed that this is not a one-time campaign. The drive will continue throughout the fog season, with plans to expand coverage to other parts of the city in the coming weeks. Recognising the scale of the task, the AMC is actively encouraging community participation. Residents and animal lovers are being invited to volunteer, with the corporation providing the reflective collars.
Dr. Singh highlighted the power of community action, noting, "If residents take responsibility in their localities, accidents will significantly decrease." This collaborative approach between the civic body and citizens could serve as a model for other urban areas grappling with similar issues of road safety and animal welfare.
The Agra Municipal Corporation's initiative represents a simple, cost-effective, and compassionate solution to a persistent urban problem. By making stray dogs visible, it safeguards both animal lives and the well-being of motorists, paving the way for safer streets for all.
