The Urban Development Department of Uttar Pradesh has rolled out fresh guidelines aimed at tackling the persistent issue of growing stray dog populations and the rising cases of dog bites in cities. The revised circular places strong emphasis on both public safety and compassionate treatment of animals, aligning with the Animal Birth Control (Dogs) Rules, 2023. With a particular focus on safeguarding children and elderly citizens, the directive introduces a clear action plan for local bodies, including municipal corporations and urban councils.
Structured Feeding and Public Safety
A key highlight of the guidelines is the creation of designated feeding zones for stray dogs. Local authorities are required to identify these spots based on the number of dogs in each ward or neighborhood. To minimize risks, feeding points cannot be near playgrounds, school entrances, residential exits, or areas where children and senior citizens frequently pass. Feeding times must also coincide with hours of low human activity.
Animal feeders are strictly instructed to provide food and water only at these approved zones while ensuring cleanliness and proper disposal of leftovers. Compliance with rules set by Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) or housing societies is mandatory. To prevent conflicts, those who feed dogs in accordance with the laid guidelines are legally protected from harassment or threats. On the other hand, strict action will be taken against anyone found feeding outside the designated areas.
Disputes regarding feeding arrangements between RWAs, local bodies, or animal caregivers will be resolved by specially formed committees led by the Chief Veterinary Officer, law enforcement representatives, and animal welfare members. Their decisions will be binding and final. If disagreements remain unresolved, the matter will be escalated to the state board.
Continuous Animal Birth Control Program
Another crucial part of the directive is the state’s commitment to a continuous sterilization and vaccination program. The Animal Birth Control (ABC) initiative mandates sterilizing stray dogs and administering anti-rabies vaccines before returning them to their original localities. Dogs identified as rabies-infected or aggressive will be quarantined at special ABC centers for monitoring and treatment. Municipal bodies are further directed to set up dog pounds for housing such cases.
The guidelines also insist on humane catching methods, banning any cruel or outdated practices. Training will be regularly provided to dog catchers to ensure safe handling. Local bodies must appoint a nodal officer in charge of implementing these programs, with overall oversight carried out by a new monitoring cell set up under the Directorate of Urban Local Bodies.
Community Awareness and Adoption
The updated policy promotes community participation with awareness drives about safe feeding practices, responsible pet ownership, and rabies prevention. NGOs, schools, and social organizations will be roped in to spread awareness through workshops, posters, and digital media. To streamline communication, dedicated helplines will be launched for residents to report violations or raise concerns.
Citizens are also encouraged to adopt stray dogs officially through local bodies. Once a dog is adopted, abandoning it is strictly prohibited. Awards and recognition will be given to local authorities, NGOs, and groups that excel in implementing humane and effective dog management measures.
To reinforce accountability, pet owners are required to register their dogs with local bodies, providing details such as breed, age, and vaccination records. Regular sterilization and vaccination camps will also be coordinated with veterinarians and recognized animal welfare organizations, ensuring coverage in high-risk areas.
