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Key Points

Delhi Mayor Raja Iqbal announced a dedicated helpline for stray dog complaints following a Supreme Court order. The MCD has begun a three-phase removal drive, prioritizing aggressive dogs in sensitive areas. Shelter capacity is being expanded, including a new 25-acre facility at Goga Dairy. The initiative aims to ensure public safety ahead of Independence Day events.

Key Points: Delhi Mayor Raja Iqbal Launches Stray Dog Helpline After Court Order

  • MCD launches helpline for aggressive stray dog complaints
  • 3-phase operation targets high-bite-risk dogs first
  • Shelters expanded in Dwarka and Goga Dairy
  • Dogs won’t be returned to original locations post-removal
2 min read

MCD to launch helpline as drive to remove stray dogs intensifies, says Delhi Mayor Raja Iqbal

Delhi MCD starts stray dog removal drive with a dedicated helpline, prioritizing high-risk areas following Supreme Court directives.

"We are targeting stray dogs causing maximum public distress first – Raja Iqbal"

New Delhi, Aug 13

Delhi Mayor Raja Iqbal on Wednesday told IANS that the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) will soon launch a dedicated helpline for residents to report aggressive or dangerous stray dogs, following a Supreme Court order directing their relocation from public spaces.

Welcoming the court’s directive, Iqbal said the judgment acknowledged the “pain of Delhi’s citizens” and outlined remedial measures.

Acting on the order, the MCD has initiated a three-phase operation. “In the first phase, we are targeting stray dogs against whom the highest number of biting complaints have been received, and which are causing maximum public distress. These dogs are being picked up from across the city and sent to shelter homes,” the mayor said.

The second and third phases will address the remaining strays.

Sensitive areas -- such as around schools, hospitals, courts, colleges, markets, and other public spaces -- are being prioritised. In the past two days, the MCD has removed nearly 100 stray dogs from different localities, he told IANS.

The corporation is working with around 25 agencies to carry out the operation. MCD currently has 20 Animal Birth Control (ABC) centres, several of which are being converted into shelters. The largest facility is in Dwarka, where capacity is being expanded. Plans are also underway to build a large shelter home on 25 acres at Goga Dairy, he said.

He further added that ahead of Independence Day celebrations, stray dogs are being removed from the Red Fort, Chandni Chowk, and surrounding areas to ensure the safety and comfort of visitors.

Previously, strays picked up by MCD were sterilised and released back in the same locations. However, under the current order, they will not be returned to their original spots, he emphasised.

The new helpline will allow residents to directly inform MCD about stray dogs causing public safety concerns, enabling swift action.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While public safety is important, I hope the shelters are humane. Many strays are friendly and just need proper care. The MCD should ensure proper food and medical facilities at these centers.
A
Aman W
Good initiative but implementation is key. Last time they promised ABC centers but most were non-functional. Hope this time they follow through properly with the 25 acre shelter plan.
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Nisha Z
Removing dogs from Red Fort before Independence Day is necessary but what about permanent solution? People feed strays near monuments creating nuisance. Need awareness campaigns too 🐕
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Vikram M
The court order is balanced - addressing public safety while providing shelters. But MCD must monitor these shelters properly, not just dump dogs there. Our tax money should be used responsibly.
S
Sarah B
As an animal lover, I'm conflicted. While aggressive dogs need to be contained, I hope they're not treating all strays the same. Many community dogs are harmless and protect localities at night.

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