Udupi District grapples with a significant stray dog population, currently estimated at around 18,500. In response, Deputy Commissioner T.K. Swaroopa convened a meeting on Thursday, emphasizing the urgent need for action following a recent Supreme Court directive concerning stray dogs. She mandated that the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, in partnership with the Udupi City Municipality, establish a dog shelter on a one-acre plot identified in Udupi.
During the meeting, Swaroopa outlined a coordinated approach to address the situation, calling for the establishment of dog shelters in every taluk across the district. Officials are expected to identify suitable land within the next three days as part of this coordinated effort. “This initiative must proceed quickly to ensure the welfare of both the dogs and residents,” she stated.
In her address, Swaroopa also highlighted the responsibilities of pet owners, urging them to ensure their dogs wear collar tags. Dogs without proper identification found roaming the streets will be classified as strays and relocated to shelters. She reiterated the importance of raising public awareness about these changes before any enforcement begins.
To support this initiative, Udupi City Municipality has already pinpointed ten locations within the city for feeding stray dogs. Other local governing bodies, including gram panchayats, are encouraged to designate similar feeding spots within their jurisdictions, as this effort is essential for managing the stray population effectively.
The Supreme Court’s directive, issued on November 7, 2025, mandates the removal of stray dogs from specific public spaces such as schools, hospitals, and railway stations. The court requires that these dogs be relocated to shelters after sterilization and vaccination, with a clear prohibition against returning them to their original locations.
Swaroopa stressed the importance of maintaining safe environments at public facilities like playgrounds, schools, and transit areas. “Facilities should be properly fenced to prevent stray dogs from entering,” she asserted. Local authorities are required to conduct inspections every three months and report compliance to the district administration. Stray dogs identified in these areas will be promptly transferred to shelters.
In a separate meeting held the same day, Swaroopa disclosed alarming statistics, revealing that the district has recorded 7,475 dog bite cases-both from pets and strays-since April this year. This underscores the urgency of the situation and highlights the need for effective management strategies to protect residents and ensure the safety of animals.
The proactive steps outlined by the Deputy Commissioner and the collaborative efforts with local NGOs and community organizations aim to create a safer environment for both residents and stray dogs alike. As Udupi navigates this challenge, it sets a precedent for municipalities throughout the region, demonstrating a commitment to responsible animal control and public safety.
In the coming weeks, local authorities will implement these measures, working to ensure compliance with the Supreme Court’s mandate while fostering community engagement in caring for stray animals.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Mangalore/sc-directive-on-stray-dogs-udupi-dc-asks-local-bodies-to-open-dog-shelters/article70303853.ece
Category : Mangaluru
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Publish Date: 2025-11-20 20:17:00
