Stray dog menace: Ground reality in Mohali far from SC directives

The issue has gained urgency in light of the apex court’s strict directions. Earlier, the top court had stressed large-scale sterilisation of stray dogs to control their population. More recently, it issued clear guidelines for the establishment of dog shelters and dog centres, underlining that public safety cannot be compromised.

KK Saini, president of the Confederation of Residents Welfare Associations, said, “The court has categorically stated that human life is the most valuable and proper; safe arrangements must be made for stray dogs.”

Saini questioned the functioning of both GMADA and the Corporation, stating that around one-and-a-half years ago, he had formally written to the Deputy Commissioner and later to the Chief Secretary Tejveer Singh, flagging the alarming rise in dog-bite cases.

“A report was sought, but to date we have not been provided a copy,” he said, adding that he has once again written to the Deputy Commissioner, urging directions to the Municipal Corporation for the immediate construction of a dog shelter.

Mayor seeks five acres for dog pound

Mohali Mayor Jiti Sidhu on January 15 demanded that GMADA allot at least five acres for setting up a dog pound, citing the growing stray dog population and increasing attacks on residents.

In a letter to the Chief Administrator, GMADA, the mayor said ensuring safety at schools, hospitals, bus stands and other sensitive locations has now become a basic necessity.

The letter further states that, as per Supreme Court guidelines, it is the responsibility of local authorities to ensure proper shelters and pounds for stray dogs, along with arrangements for sterilisation, vaccination and care.

The mayor has urged GMADA to grant immediate approval for land allotment, keeping public interest and court directions in mind.