Bhubaneswar Takes Action on Stray Dog Management After Supreme Court Query
The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation has decided to establish clear guidelines for stray dog feeding in the city. This decision comes just one day after the Supreme Court raised important questions about responsibility for injuries caused by street canines.
Designated Feeding Points to Be Established
Municipal authorities announced on Wednesday that they will identify specific feeding zones throughout Bhubaneswar. These locations will be determined through consultation with local corporators and resident welfare associations.
Senior BMC officials have instructed zonal deputy commissioners to find suitable areas for these feeding zones. They must consider both the concentration of stray dogs and the convenience of local residents when selecting locations.
"The dog-feeding points will follow Animal Birth Control rules precisely," explained Dr. Debi Prasad Kund, the designated veterinarian in charge of BMC's ABC program. "We must ensure these areas pose no risk to elderly people or children. We will consult thoroughly with RWAs and corporators before finalizing any feeding zone."
Permanent Shelters Planned for Stray Dogs
In addition to feeding zones, the municipal corporation is actively searching for land to build permanent shelters for stray dogs. This initiative responds to an earlier Supreme Court ruling that addressed the long-term care of street canines.
These shelters differ significantly from temporary kennels where sterilized dogs undergo quarantine before release. The planned facilities will provide lifetime care for the animals.
"We are seeking land to develop three shelter types with different capacities," said Dr. Kund. "One shelter will accommodate 100 dogs, another 500, and a third 1,000 animals, following Supreme Court guidelines. Dogs will remain in these shelters throughout their lives, receiving proper food and medical treatment."
Stray Dog Population Statistics Reveal Significant Challenge
BMC officials shared concerning statistics about Bhubaneswar's stray dog population. The city currently has approximately 36 stray dogs per 1,000 residents. This figure exceeds the national average of 11 dogs per 1,000 people by more than three times.
The latest stray dog census counted 47,126 canines throughout Bhubaneswar. The municipal body conducted this comprehensive survey in two phases during September of last year. This effort marked the first citywide stray dog census in India.
Despite the overall high numbers, officials noted that only about 5,000 stray dogs are typically seen near institutions and organizational premises.
Organizations Provide Self-Declarations About Dog Presence
In related developments, BMC has collected self-declarations from various organizations and institutions regarding stray dogs near their properties. These declarations include specific details about whether the premises have protective fencing.
This information gathering represents another step in the municipal corporation's comprehensive approach to managing Bhubaneswar's stray dog population while addressing public safety concerns.
