Surat: In a citywide drive to curb the stray dog menace, the Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) has identified 854 sensitive locations within municipal limits, including educational institutions, hospitals and major public spaces, to ensure the safety of students, patients and citizens.

According to officials, the list comprises 748 government and private schools and colleges, 87 government hospitals, primary health centres and medical colleges, 10 sports complexes, as well as nine bus stands, depots and railway stations. A nodal officer has been appointed for each of these establishments, in line with Supreme Court guidelines and a circular issued by the state government.

The nodal officers have been tasked with strengthening campus security by installing boundary walls, fencing and gated entry points to prevent the entry of stray dogs. Civic officials stated that the initiative aims to create a safer environment, particularly for children and students.

Further, the civic body has ensured the availability of anti-rabies vaccines and immunoglobulin across 76 health centres and hospitals. These facilities will support timely treatment in case of dog-bite incidents and help minimise the risk of rabies.

In parallel, work is underway to construct three dedicated shelter homes for stray dogs. The corporation has also developed 126 designated feeding zones in the first phase of the programme to manage feeding activities in a regulated manner.

The municipal administration has warned that negligence in matters of public safety will not be tolerated. Regular monitoring will be carried out by supervisors and nodal officers, who have been directed to ensure systematic management of stray dogs and prompt corrective action wherever required. DeshGujarat