Bhopal: A rising menace of stray dogs, with incidents of dog bites on the rise, has prompted the Bhopal Municipal Administration to take action. In response to the escalating incidents, a significant meeting chaired by Mayor Malathi Rai was convened today. During the meeting, discussions centered on addressing complaints received through the helpline and finding solutions to the dog-related issues.

Mayor Malathi Rai emphasized the need for swift action and suggested the creation of dog shelters to mitigate the situation. The meeting, attended by Municipal Commissioner Dr. Pawan Kumar Sharma, the Dog Officer, and members of the Municipal Corporation, focused on strategizing effective measures.

The helpline recorded 321 complaints related to dog-catching, prompting Mayor Rai to instruct Dog Officer Rakesh Sharma to strengthen the dog-catching teams. The meeting also highlighted the repeated appeals to animal lovers to collaborate and engage in discussions for solutions. However, despite these efforts, no cooperation has been extended by the animal lovers’ community.

The Municipal Corporation, actively working to capture stray dogs, has faced obstacles in the form of interference by some individuals. In response, the Corporation has taken disciplinary actions against seven individuals obstructing their work. In a bid to address the issue comprehensively, the Municipal Corporation is now preparing to establish separate shelters for dogs.

While acknowledging that isolated incidents occur, Mayor Rai stressed that they tend to garner excessive publicity. The Municipal Corporation is committed to resolving the challenges posed by stray dogs through a combination of effective dog-catching operations and collaboration with the community. The proposed creation of dog shelters reflects the Corporation’s proactive approach to finding humane solutions to the issue.

The ongoing efforts by the Municipal Corporation underscore the need for a balanced and inclusive strategy that takes into account the concerns of both the community and the welfare of stray animals. As the Corporation prepares to implement comprehensive measures, it remains dedicated to addressing the challenges posed by stray dogs while fostering understanding and cooperation among all stakeholders.

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