Surat Municipal Corporation Initiates Major Dog Population Survey
The Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) is in the final stages of preparation for a comprehensive city-wide dog population survey. This significant initiative is being undertaken in strict compliance with directives issued by the Supreme Court of India. The primary objective of the survey is to thoroughly evaluate the effectiveness and impact of the extensive sterilisation programme that has been actively implemented across Surat over the past several years.
Survey Methodology and Implementation
To ensure the highest levels of accuracy and credibility, the SMC will appoint an organisation specifically authorised by the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) to conduct the entire survey operation. The ambitious exercise is projected to span approximately six months. Upon completion, a detailed analytical report will be compiled. This report will not only determine the current canine population but also project future growth trends, providing crucial data for long-term urban planning.
The city of Surat will be systematically divided into multiple zones for the purpose of this survey. Teams of professionally trained surveyors will be deployed to visit roads, lanes, and various public areas. Their task will be to meticulously record several key data points for every dog encountered: the total number, sex, approximate age, and most importantly, the sterilisation status. The count will be inclusive, encompassing puppies as well. The teams will adopt a zone-by-zone approach, moving to the next designated area only after completing a thorough assessment of the current one.
Technological Integration and Past Efforts
In a move to enhance accuracy and optimize time efficiency, surveyors will utilize handheld electronic devices to upload collected data directly on the spot. This real-time digital data entry will serve a dual purpose: it minimizes human error and enables the civic body to create a precise geographical map pinpointing the exact locations of dogs throughout the urban landscape of Surat.
Reflecting on past efforts, municipal data reveals that around 55,000 dogs have been successfully sterilised in Surat over the last five years. Current estimates suggest the city is home to approximately 1.5 lakh (150,000) dogs, with nearly 70% of this population having already undergone sterilisation procedures. "While sterilisation drives have been a continuous effort for several years, the intensity was significantly ramped up over the last two years," explained an SMC official. "This comprehensive survey is essential to ascertain the actual, verified numbers on the ground. The findings will be instrumental in strategically planning and implementing future animal birth control and welfare measures."
Broader Objectives and Civic Planning
Beyond the core function of assessing population figures, the survey findings will empower the civic administration in several other critical areas. The data will directly assist in the strategic planning and development of shelter homes for stray animals. Furthermore, it will guide the implementation of specific, data-driven measures to ensure that stray dogs do not become a nuisance in public spaces, thereby aligning civic management with the broader directives laid down by the judiciary for public safety and animal welfare.
