PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/ Dehradun
The Dehradun mayor, Saurabh Thapliyal visited Shankarpur Gaushala and reviewed the animal welfare initiatives being executed. He also discussed expansion plans to improve the management of stray cattle in the city. Notably, Shankarpur Gaushala, operated by MCD, is one of the capital’s largest facilities dedicated to sheltering stray and abandoned cattle.
The senior veterinary officer, Dr Varun Aggarwal said that the gaushala currently houses about 500 animals and serves as a central site for the rehabilitation and care of cattle rescued from city roads and surrounding areas.
He further said that the facility has also become a point of engagement for several non-governmental organisations (NGO) and social groups that regularly visit to conduct welfare activities and support the upkeep of animals.
The gaushala has recently developed three large cow dung drying platforms as part of a waste management initiative. Nearly one quintal of cow dung is dried at the site daily.
He added that the cow dung collected from dairy units across Dehradun region is transported to the Shankarpur facility for proper handling and processing. The system helps streamline organic waste disposal while improving sanitation and operational efficiency at the shelter.
Aggarwal also outlined plans to expand infrastructure within the gaushala premises. A dedicated dog shelter is proposed to be constructed on a separate parcel of land within the complex, with work expected to begin soon. He also pointed out that residents are willingly coming forward to donate to Shankarpur Gaushala.
The expansion, the officials said, is part of a broader strategy to strengthen urban animal management systems and improve veterinary care and shelter capacity in Dehradun.
