PNS | DEHRADUN
The Municipal Corporation of Dehradun (MCD) is planning to tackle the escalating issue of stray animals by making it mandatory to attach Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags to cattle and pet dogs. This initiative aims to monitor and track animals effectively, ensuring legal action can be taken against owners who abandon their animals in public spaces, the Dehradun municipal commissioner Namami Bansal said. The streets of Dehradun have become increasingly hazardous, not only due to stray cattle but also domesticated ones released by dairy owners. These animals are often left unattended on roads during early mornings, evenings and late-night hours, causing significant traffic disruptions and posing a danger to commuters. The cattle are typically retrieved later for milking, only to be released again, contributing to traffic jams, accidents and severe injuries or fatalities.
Adding to the concern, several locals claim a rise in stray dog populations across the city, with numerous complaints of dog bite incidents. Addressing these issues, Bansal stated, “We are fully aware of the challenges posed by stray and abandoned animals. The corporation has already deployed teams to remove stray cattle from roads. However, we are now planning to implement RFID tagging for both cattle and pet dogs to hold owners accountable for abandoning their animals after they reach a non-productive age or fall ill.”
Bansal said that the RFID tags will allow authorities to track the movement of animals and identify negligent owners. Strict legal action will be taken against those who abandon their animals in public areas, creating a safer and more organised environment for residents and commuters. She informed that the MCD is also working to expand the capacity of its cow shelters to accommodate more stray cattle and provide them with adequate facilities. “The process for the RFID tagging project is underway and we are working to ensure its effective implementation at the ground level,” Bansal added.
