Udupi: In compliance with Supreme Court directives, the Udupi City Municipal Council has prohibited feeding stray dogs at random locations within municipal limits. Commissioner Mahesh Hangargi announced that designated feeding spots, marked with signboards, will soon be established to regulate the practice and address public concerns.
Animal Birth Control programme planned
During a meeting at Satyamurthy Hall chaired by Municipal President Prabhakar Poojary, officials stressed that the Animal Birth Control (ABC) programme will be implemented in collaboration with local NGOs. The initiative aims to manage the stray dog population while balancing animal welfare with community safety.
Environmental Engineer Raviprakash highlighted that complaints about stray dogs often involved children and senior citizens, underlining the need for structured intervention.
Proposal for dog ownership regulation
Municipal member Girish Anchan proposed that individuals keeping more than two dogs within or around municipal limits should undergo mandatory registration. The measure, currently under consideration, seeks to enhance accountability and regulate pet ownership in the city.
Key officials’ participation
The meeting saw participation from several senior officials, including Deputy Director of Animal Husbandry Reddappa, Standing Committee President Vijay Kodavoor, G T Hegde, and Manjunath Manipal.
The council emphasised that the move is not intended to curb compassion for animals but to ensure safe, hygienic and legally compliant practices.
Balancing welfare and safety
Authorities have urged residents to strictly comply with the new feeding regulations and report any violations or concerns to the municipal office. NGOs will play a pivotal role in setting up and monitoring feeding spots, as well as in implementing the ABC programme.
The move reflects Udupi’s commitment to addressing public safety concerns while ensuring humane treatment of stray dogs, in line with judicial guidelines.