Dog census in Bhubaneswar from September 17 to 24; 410 teams formed

With the increasing stray dog population causing daily issues in the capital city, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has decided to conduct a detailed stray dog census. The exercise will take place in two phases from September 17 to 24 across the capital.

As per BMC sources, teams have been formed for each zone, ward, and street, with a total of 410 teams assigned to carry out the counting. The census will be conducted daily from 5 AM to 7 PM. Under the supervision of skilled veterinarians, the exercise will be overseen by Supervisors, Sanitary Inspectors, SMTAs, DEOs, COs, and Ward Officers. BMC has allocated a total of Rs 12 lakh for this initiative.

"We are starting a dog count survey. The survey had been conducted long ago and we didn't have the data about the exact number o dogs in the corporation area. We are seeing many debates and statistics on the media and various social media platforms. We will start the count for around a week to 10 days to give it a scientific form," said BMC Commissioner Chanchal Rana.

Personnel involved in the census have undergone three-day training to ensure accurate monitoring of stray dog movements. Dog lovers have welcomed the initiative, stating that it will help identify the number of dogs in each ward. Additionally, the BMC will be able to provide food and vaccinations to the dogs as required.

The census will also track birth and mortality rates among the stray dog population. This first-of-its-kind step in the state aims to protect citizens from accidents and the spread of infectious diseases.

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"At many times, the number of dogs is increasing, but there is less food availability. As a result, they are getting violent due to lack of food. If their number remains in control as per the food availability, we could check their aggression. The government should consult the dog feeders and animal lovers in different areas before the census process so that they could actually identify the real aggressive animals," said animal lover Abantika Das.

"There is actually no requirement for dog census as only one among twenty puppies is  surviving. They want treatment, sterilisation and feeding. They need proper shelters. The dogs can only survive at their proper places," said animal lover Sarada Mohapatra.

The BMC’s stray dog census, which will be conducted over eight days, has received widespread appreciation from all sections of society.