Municipal Corporation to start sterilisation of stray dogs from Feb 10 in Karnal

In a major relief for local residents from stray dogs, the Karnal Municipal Corporation (KMC) will start a sterilisation drive of stray canine from February 10. The civic body has issued a work order to a Gwalior-based company for the execution of this project which aims to control the growing population of street dogs in the city. The authorities claimed that this step aims to curb incidents of dog bites and ensure a safer environment for residents.

Increasing number of stray dogs has been a persistent issue in Karnal city, leading to frequent complaints from residents. The sterilisation programme is expected to be a long-term solution to manage the population of strays humanely.

The sterilisation drive will be conducted in a phased manner, targeting different areas of the city. The Gwalior-based agency has been assigned the task to sterilise stray dogs as per the guidelines of the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023, of the Animal Welfare Board of India. The authorities claimed that sterilisation will be conducted by experienced veterinarians. Besides, a specialised team, including dog catchers, vehicle operators and support staff will be deployed for this project.

As per the programme, stray dogs will be captured, sterilised, vaccinated and then released back into their respective areas.

“The agency is presently working on setting up an animal birth control (ABC) centre on the Ghogripur road, which is near completion. After completion of the centre, stray dogs will be captured and sterilised. Zone in-charges will monitor the sterilisation project in their respective areas,” said Dr Vaishali Sharma, Commissioner, KMC.

She maintained that under this programme, captured dogs would undergo sterilisation surgery, followed by administration of anti-rabies vaccination. She said, “Post-surgery, dogs will be kept under observation for three to four days, during which their food, water and medication needs will be taken care of by the agency. After recovery, dogs will be released in their original locations. The ABC centre will be equipped with CCTV cameras to ensure proper monitoring of the project.”

“To ensure smooth execution of the project, a dedicated monitoring committee will be formed, including veterinarians from the Animal Husbandry Department,” she said, while adding that the sterilisation drive would provide significant relief to residents from rising stray canine population and associated problems. “The agency has been awarded a two-year tender for carrying out this task,” she added.

Concern in rural, urban areas

Although the KMC has assigned a tender for the sterilisation of stray dogs, the issue remains a significant concern in the rural and other areas of several civic bodies. A tragic incident in Shekhpura Khalsa village under the Gharaunda police station two days ago highlighted the urgency of the matter, wherein a 10-year-old boy was mauled to death by a group of stray dogs. Residents have raised concern over their safety as stray dog population continues to rise, while urging the authorities to extend sterilisation drive beyond the city limits and implement stronger measures to prevent such incidents.