Gandhinagar: Following Supreme Court directives, Gujarat’s Rural Development Department has stepped up measures to curb the menace of stray dogs across the state. Talatis at the village level have been tasked with monitoring stray dogs and preventing them from entering government offices, educational campuses, and hospitals. A circular issued by the Development Commissioner orders all government institutions to install boundary walls, gates, and other structural facilities within the next eight weeks.

The circular comes in response to Supreme Court observations regarding the growing stray dog problem. It mandates the administrative machinery to take timely measures to prevent stray dogs from entering government premises and public spaces.

As per the circular, the Talati–Minister at the Gram level, the Veterinary Officer at the Taluka level, and the Deputy Director (Animal Husbandry) at the District level will serve as Nodal Officers. Their contact details must be prominently displayed at the entrance of all government buildings under their jurisdiction.

Structural Measures Within Eight Weeks

Administrative heads of all government and private educational institutions, hospitals, bus stands, railway stations, and public sports complexes under district jurisdiction must ensure that stray dogs cannot enter their premises. Under the supervision of the Nodal Officer, these institutions are required to construct compound walls, fences, and strong gates within eight weeks. Additionally, a comprehensive list of such institutions must be prepared within two weeks.

Stray Dog Control and Sterilization

Local bodies are responsible for removing stray dogs from institutional premises immediately. As per the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023, captured dogs must be vaccinated, sterilized, and relocated to designated shelters. Notably, dogs will not be released back to the same location after treatment.

Monitoring and Review Meetings

To ensure effective implementation, regular monitoring has been mandated. Taluka Panchayats will inspect institutions under their jurisdiction every three months to remove stray dog shelters. The District Development Officer will prepare an action plan and hold review meetings quarterly to assess progress. Nodal Officers in Gram Panchayats bordering urban areas must coordinate with municipal authorities to complete vaccination and sterilization activities.