Bengaluru continues to face stray dog challenge, despite the implementation of the Animal Birth Control programme in over two decades, says Minister.
| Photo Credit: SUDHAKARA JAIN
Minister for Bengaluru Development Krishna Byre Gowda instructed Greater Bengaluru Authority’s (GBA) Animal Husbandry Department officials to prepare a comprehensive action plan to complete 100% Animal Birth Control (ABC) programme for stray dogs in the next three years.Mr. Gowda, said, “At present, the ABC surgery is being performed on about 45,000 stray dogs every year. This target has to be doubled and 90,000 dogs must be targeted in the next three years under the programme.”To achieve this target, expand infrastructure, engage more implementing agencies, appoint additional veterinarians on contract and encourage participation from experienced organisations across Karnataka and the country, he said.The Minister said that despite over two decades of ABC implementation and an expenditure of nearly ₹42 crore over the past five years, Bengaluru continues to face a serious stray dog challenge. Around 8.8 lakh dogs have undergone sterilisation since 2007, yet the population remains significant.He also pulled up an official from the department for failing to present the data on the expenses incurred for the ABC programme for five years. “There are 19 officials in the Animal Husbandry Department and couldn’t bring data on the ABC programme to the meeting. You (officer) will be relieved from duty immediately,” the Minister said.
