The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has established a quarantine centre for aggressive stray dogs suffering from rabies and viral infections such as canine distemper. Located at Ma Po Si Nagar in the Perungudi zone, the facility in ward 189 can accommodate up to 100 diseased stray dogs.
Reducing Burden on Existing Centres
Deputy Mayor Mahesh Kumar stated that this exclusive centre will help alleviate pressure on other Animal Birth Control (ABC) centres across the city. He added, "We plan to set up four more centres." Currently, 10 dog birth control centres are operational in Chennai, including locations at Pulianthope, Kannammapet, Lloyds Colony, Meenambakkam, Sholinganallur, Chettimedu, Tiruvottiyur, Madhavaram, Tondiarpet, and Kannappar Thidal.
Ongoing and Planned Construction
Construction of four additional centres is underway at Athipattu in Ambattur zone, Nandambakkam in Alandur zone, Tambaram-Velachery Main Road in Perungudi zone, and the biogas plant premises in Sholinganallur zone. These expansions aim to enhance the city's capacity to manage the stray dog population and control the spread of diseases.
Sterilisation and Vaccination Efforts
To carry out sterilisation surgeries, GCC has deployed 28 dog-catching vehicles and 159 personnel. On average, around 150 stray dogs undergo sterilisation daily. The corporation plans to add 15 more dog-catching vehicles for zonal use. So far, 88,240 stray dogs have been sterilised and vaccinated against rabies. Deputy Mayor Mahesh Kumar noted, "Under a mass vaccination drive, 1,47,538 stray dogs have been administered anti-rabies vaccines and deworming medication."
Emergency Response and Public Safety
GCC has also deployed six special rescue vehicles to immediately pick up rabies-infected stray dogs and respond to emergency cases. Officials stated that these measures will help prevent the spread of rabies and canine distemper, ensuring public safety as well as animal welfare. A dedicated complaint centre has been established for residents to report issues related to stray dogs. The public can contact the GCC control room at 1913 to report aggressive or diseased stray dogs.
Construction of Dog Shelters
In accordance with Supreme Court guidelines, GCC is constructing dog shelters at Manali and ward 189 in Perungudi zone, each with a capacity to house 250 stray dogs. These shelters will provide a safe environment for stray dogs and further support the city's animal management efforts.
