Is Chennai Corporation Ready to Revive Vaccination and Sterilization Initiatives for Stray Dogs After Five Years?
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Synopsis
Chennai is set to revive its vaccination and sterilization campaign for stray dogs after a five-year gap, responding to public outcry over rising stray dog attacks. With a target of vaccinating and sterilizing 180,000 dogs, the Greater Chennai Corporation aims to ensure public safety and address the growing stray dog population.
Key Takeaways
- Comprehensive Campaign: GCC is launching a large-scale initiative for stray dog vaccination and sterilization.
- Public Safety: The campaign addresses rising concerns about stray dog attacks.
- Collaboration: GCC plans to outsource manpower for effective implementation.
- Health Concerns: Dogs with diseases will also receive treatment during the campaign.
- Community Involvement: Residents are hopeful for a sustainable solution to the stray dog issue.
Chennai, May 28 (NationPress) After a five-year break, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) is preparing to kick off a comprehensive campaign aimed at vaccinating and sterilizing over 180,000 stray dogs across all 200 city divisions.
This renewed effort is driven by increasing public complaints and incidents of stray dog attacks within the city.
The last vaccination and sterilization campaign took place in 2020, and since then, the GCC has been under mounting criticism for not effectively managing the growing stray dog population and related public safety issues.
“The planning phase is nearly finalized, and funds have been allocated for acquiring vaccines and essential medications needed for the Animal Birth Control (ABC) and Anti-Rabies Vaccination (ARV) programs,” stated J. Kamal Hussain, the GCC’s Veterinary Officer. “We will engage external personnel to assist in the capture and vaccination of the dogs. The initiative is set to commence within a month.”
Official statistics indicate that Chennai recorded 31,000 dog bite incidents in 2023, with approximately 2,500 new cases emerging each month.
“Vaccination and sterilization are our primary measures to mitigate these occurrences. Dogs afflicted with other illnesses or parasite issues will also receive treatment,” Hussain added.
This matter was also brought up in a recent council meeting, where opposition AIADMK councillors criticized the administration's approach to the situation.
“The state apparatus is acting like a dormant giant. Chennai is lagging behind other Indian cities in managing its stray dog population,” remarked J. John, an AIADMK councillor from Ward 84.
“In locations such as East Avenue Road, Korattur Station Road, and Bajanai Koil Street, a significant number of stray dogs are visible. Of every ten dogs, the civic body manages to capture only two,” he elaborated.
Residents in areas like Tirumalai Nagar in Kolathur shared similar worries. “Women and children fear walking on the streets,” said D. Neelakannan, president of the Tamil Nadu Alliance of Residents Welfare Associations. “ABC and ARV efforts should be conducted regularly and promptly.”
A resident from Janakiram Colony in Arumbakkam pointed out the dangers faced by two-wheeler riders. “At night, dogs chase after vehicle headlights, startling unsuspecting riders. Many now avoid side streets as a precaution.”
Nonetheless, animal rights advocates called for a more nuanced perspective on the issue. “No dog attacks without provocation,” noted one activist.
“The solution lies in consistent and ongoing vaccination and sterilization efforts. The crucial question is whether these initiatives are being executed reliably,” the activist emphasized.
Experts further highlighted the necessity for scientific research into canine behavior. “Dogs are inherently social yet territorial. The government must allocate resources for behavioral studies and enhance the ongoing ABC and ARV programs,” the activist remarked.
With plans now underway, residents of Chennai are optimistic that the forthcoming campaign will provide a viable solution to the city’s stray dog challenges.
Point of View
The Greater Chennai Corporation's initiative to address the escalating stray dog population is a crucial step towards ensuring public safety and animal welfare. It reflects the need for local governments to respond proactively to community concerns. The emphasis on vaccination and sterilization highlights a balanced approach to animal control that prioritizes safety and humane treatment.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the GCC launching a vaccination campaign for stray dogs?
The GCC is responding to increasing public complaints and incidents of stray dog attacks in the city, aiming to manage the stray dog population effectively.
How many stray dogs will be targeted in the campaign?
The campaign aims to vaccinate and sterilize over 180,000 stray dogs across all 200 city divisions.
When will the vaccination campaign begin?
The campaign is set to commence within a month, according to GCC officials.
What measures are being taken to ensure the safety of residents?
The initiative includes vaccination and sterilization as primary measures to prevent dog attacks and ensure public safety.
How has the public reacted to the stray dog population?
Residents have expressed concerns over safety, particularly for women and children, due to the rising number of stray dogs.
