The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has significantly ramped up its stray dog sterilisation efforts, increasing the number of surgeries from approximately 1,500 to 3,500 per month over the past four months. This surge follows the establishment of 10 new animal birth control (ABC) centres across the city, complementing the existing six facilities. These centres are pivotal in controlling the stray dog population through intensified sterilisation and vaccination drives.
Rising Dog Bite Cases and Rabies Deaths
Chennai has recorded over 5,000 dog bite cases and two rabies-related deaths in the last four months. Annually, the city reports between 25,000 and 30,000 dog bite incidents. To address this public health concern, the GCC is expanding its infrastructure. Dr J Kamal Hussain, GCC veterinary officer, stated, "Five more centres will be ready by June, and the number of sterilisations is expected to cross 4,000 a month."
Sterilisation Data Highlights
According to GCC data, a total of 13,760 stray dogs were captured between January and May 16, of which 11,974 underwent ABC surgeries. The monthly breakdown shows a steady rise:
- January: 1,751 dogs caught, 1,490 surgeries performed.
- February: Figures not specified but continued increase.
- March: Continued upward trend.
- April: 3,805 dogs caught, 3,259 surgeries performed.
- May (first half): 2,000 dogs caught, 1,674 sterilisation surgeries completed.
Additionally, the GCC has deployed a fleet of 24 vehicles to transport rabies-affected dogs, enhancing response capabilities. These measures aim to curb the stray dog population and reduce rabies transmission in the city.
