Panvel Municipal Corporation tackles stray dog conflicts with new welfare measures

The Animal Welfare Committee of Panvel Municipal Corporation (PMC) recently held a meeting to tackle human-animal conflict and stray animal management. Key issues included the handling of aggressive dogs and the implementation of new guidelines for stray dog care. During the meeting, the committee reviewed directives from the Supreme Court and the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI). Discussions focused on the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023, which outline procedures for capturing, sterilising, vaccinating, and treating stray dogs.

PMC already operates an ABC Centre in Podi, New Panvel. Since 2018, the facility has been sterilising and vaccinating stray dogs. Under the Zero Rabies Eradication Programme, 15,689 dogs were vaccinated in 2025, with the number rising to 16,851 in 2026.

The committee also addressed challenges faced by police in managing human-animal conflict complaints. A dedicated grievance redressal mechanism, the ABC Helpline, has been set up to handle such issues. Additionally, PMC plans to open a shelter in Taloja for aggressive and suspected rabid dogs.

Authorised feeding spots for strays are being designated as per Supreme Court orders. Several locations have been identified, and applications for official feeding spots are now being accepted. PMC is taking steps to improve stray animal management and reduce conflicts. The new shelter, helpline, and feeding spots aim to address public concerns while ensuring animal welfare. Vaccination and sterilisation efforts continue to expand under the existing programmes.