The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has initiated a city-wide program to address stray animal issues and enhance human-animal coexistence. The policy designates specific feeding locations for stray animals, with penalties for feeding outside these areas. AMC’s Cattle Nuisance Control Department (CNCD) aims to establish organized feeding arrangements to maintain cleanliness in the city.
Naresh Rajput, Head of CNCD, mentioned that as per the Central government’s Animals Birth Rules 2023 and Supreme Court guidelines, urban bodies must set up feeding spots for street dogs to prevent littering and inconvenience caused by random feeding. The corporation is utilizing artificial intelligence to address problems related to stray cows.
Over 1,10,000 cows in Ahmedabad have been equipped with Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags and microchips, with cameras at 130 junctions capturing images of these animals. This technology enables officials to identify the cows, reunite them with their owners, and minimize traffic disturbances.
The stray dog policy encompasses nine zones and 48 wards, with 126 designated feeding spots established throughout the city. Shelter homes have also been established for street dogs, leading to a reduction in public disturbances and a decline in rabies cases.
Residents like Ekta appreciate the new feeding points introduced by AMC, which allow for centralized feeding of dogs and cows. This approach has replaced the previous practice of feeding animals on the streets, contributing to a cleaner and more convenient environment for citizens. The initiative not only ensures the safety of animals and the public but also aligns with the city’s cleanliness drive, promoting discipline, compassion, and animal awareness.
