Between April to October this year, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has undertaken significant initiatives to address issues related to stray animals.
According to the budget estimate presented on December 9, more than 35,000 stray dogs were sterilized during this period, with a target of reaching 80,000 sterilizations by the fiscal year-end.
The MCD, in collaboration with NGOs and private veterinarians, is actively working to control the stray dog population and has set up 16 sterilization centers in the city, with plans to open four more.
Additionally, the MCD reported the capture of over 1,100 monkeys, which were subsequently relocated to the Asola Bhati Mines sanctuary under the Delhi government.
In efforts to combat rabies, special vaccination camps were established in 12 areas. The MCD also impounded 9,391 stray cattle, directing them to gaushalas. The crackdown on illegal dairies included the sealing and removal of 156 such establishments, with legal actions taken against the owners of 161 illegal dairies and notices issued to owners of 98 others.
Presenting a budget estimate of Rs 16,683.02 crore for the financial year 2024-25, the MCD announced noteworthy initiatives, including the establishment of its first Lactation Management Unit, or Milk Bank. Furthermore, the integration of Artificial Intelligence for monitoring civic amenities underscores the commitment to advancing technology for efficient governance. The MCD’s comprehensive efforts reflect a proactive approach to animal welfare and urban management in Delhi.
