Mohali MC toughens measures to tackle stray menace: Now pay fine of Rs 20,000 or your pet will be up for auction if found roaming

The number of stray and free-roaming animals in Mohali has been increasing rapidly. According to the MC records, there are over 20,000 stray dogs in the city, with an average of 20–25 dog-bite cases reported daily.

Cows and buffaloes wandering on roads have also caused multiple accidents and frequent traffic jams, while contributing to litter and hygiene issues across several areas.

Municipal Commissioner Parminder Pal Singh said that complaints from residents had been pouring in regarding the growing nuisance. “At times, these animals even attack pedestrians. After a recent incident in which a woman was injured, the issue was raised strongly during the House meeting, leading to this decision,” he said.

Stricter penalties now, fines quadrupled

Although the corporation had earlier imposed penalties on stray animal owners, the fines were minimal and people ignored them. The penalty has now been quadrupled to Rs 20,000 to instill a stronger sense of responsibility among pet owners.

“Many owners deliberately let their animals roam freely, causing traffic disruptions and accidents. Strict action will now be taken against such negligence,” Parminder Pal Singh Sidhu, Commissioner, MC Mohali, said.

Under the new provisions, if an owner fails to pay the fine within the given time, the civic body will auction the animal. Animals without identifiable owners will be shifted to gaushalas or municipal shelter homes.

To ensure smooth implementation, the corporation will increase the number of animal-catching teams and provide them with special vehicles and trained staff.

The MC has urged residents to keep their pets within their homes or enclosures and ensure mandatory registration of all domestic animals. This will help establish accountability in case of accidents or violations.

“We do not wish to harm any animal, but public safety is our top priority. With citizens’ cooperation, we can make Mohali’s roads cleaner and safer,” Mayor Amarjit Singh Jeeti Sidhu said.

While the step has been widely appreciated, implementation won’t be easy. The city still lacks adequate cow shelters and animal homes, and pet owner negligence remains a persistent issue.