Will Chennai Corporation Establish a Facility for Aggressive, Rabid Dogs?
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Synopsis
The Greater Chennai Corporation is taking significant steps to protect the community and animals alike. By establishing a facility for aggressive dogs, they aim to comply with a Supreme Court ruling while enhancing public safety and animal welfare. Discover the GCC's extensive plans and initiatives aimed at creating a rabies-free city.
Key Takeaways
- GCC plans to establish a facility for up to 500 aggressive dogs.
- Over 46,000 dogs vaccinated in August 2023.
- Ten new centers for sterilization are being set up.
- QR-coded collars and microchips for tagged dogs.
- Mandatory licensing and microchipping for pet owners.
Chennai, Sep 17 (NationPress) The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) is actively searching for land on the outskirts of the city to accommodate up to 500 aggressive, rabid, or suspected rabid dogs. This initiative is in line with a Supreme Court ruling issued on August 22, which mandated that such animals should be contained in specialized facilities instead of being released back into public areas.
The court also instructed local authorities to designate a specific feeding point in each ward for stray animals, where food can be provided under controlled conditions.
Though the new facility is still in the planning stages, the GCC has issued updates regarding its ongoing efforts to manage stray dogs and prevent rabies.
In August alone, the civic body provided anti-rabies vaccinations to 46,122 dogs and conducted deworming camps in five zones: Manali, Madhavaram, Tondiarpet, Alandur, and Adyar.
This special initiative was inaugurated by Mayor R. Priya on August 9, aiming to create a rabies-free city. Currently, the GCC operates five sterilization centers that collectively perform about 115 surgeries daily before returning the dogs to their original neighborhoods.
To enhance capacity, the Corporation is launching 10 new centers throughout the city and upgrading existing facilities at Pulianthope, Lloyds Colony, and Kannammapet with additional kennels.
Dogs that undergo sterilization are being fitted with QR-coded collars and microchips that contain information about their capture, vaccination, and release. So far, 12,255 dogs have received this tagging.
On the staffing front, the GCC has hired 16 veterinary assistant surgeons (including 11 on contract), five sterilization surgeons, 78 dog catchers, and 105 center staff. Additionally, three veterinarians from the Tamil Nadu Animal Welfare Board have been assigned to supervise operations.
The Corporation is also tightening regulations on pet ownership. Licensing has become mandatory, with 13,287 licenses issued thus far through online and WhatsApp applications.
Microchipping of pets is now a requirement at the time of license issuance. Owners who abandon animals, neglect to clean up after them in public spaces, or allow them to roam without leashes or muzzles face penalties under the revised guidelines.
Officials have stated that this comprehensive approach—combining vaccination, sterilization, licensing, and strict enforcement—is designed to ensure both public safety and animal welfare in the city.
Point of View
We recognize the vital balance between ensuring public safety and promoting animal welfare. The Greater Chennai Corporation's proactive measures reflect a commitment to addressing these concerns responsibly. The establishment of dedicated facilities and comprehensive vaccination drives demonstrate a thoughtful approach to managing the stray dog population, aligning with national priorities for both community health and humane treatment of animals.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the new facility being set up by the Greater Chennai Corporation?
The new facility aims to house aggressive, rabid, or suspected rabid dogs in compliance with a Supreme Court directive, ensuring public safety and animal welfare.
How many dogs received anti-rabies vaccinations in August?
In August, the GCC administered anti-rabies vaccinations to 46,122 dogs.
What measures is the GCC taking to control the stray dog population?
The GCC is implementing vaccination, sterilization, licensing, and stricter enforcement of pet ownership rules to manage the stray dog population effectively.
Are pet owners required to microchip their pets?
Yes, microchipping pets is mandatory at the time of license issuance as per the revised guidelines.
What penalties do pet owners face under the new guidelines?
Pet owners who abandon animals, fail to clean up after them, or allow them to roam without leashes or muzzles risk facing penalties.
