In a bid to make Mumbai safer for its residents, the Municipal Corporation of Mumbai (BMC) is all set to conduct a comprehensive survey of stray dogs in January 2024. This initiative, carried out once every decade, will shed light on whether the population of stray dogs has increased or decreased over the past ten years. This article explores the reasons behind this survey and its potential impact on the city’s residents.
Why Survey Stray Dogs:
Mumbai, a bustling metropolis, has its share of challenges, one of which is the issue of stray dogs. These dogs often pose a threat to elderly citizens, children, and women, making it difficult for them to walk on the streets safely, both during the day and at night. Incidents of dogs attacking pedestrians have been reported, prompting the BMC to take action.
Controlling Stray Dog Population:
To address this issue, the BMC initiated the Animal Birth Control Program in 1994. This program primarily involves sterilizing stray dogs to control their numbers. However, the exact count of stray dogs in the city is currently unknown.
The Upcoming Census:
The last dog census was conducted in 2014, and it’s high time for another count. The BMC has decided to undertake this task in January 2024. They have invited interested organizations to participate in this crucial effort. During this census, various data will be collected, including the number of dogs, gender distribution, sterilization status, and whether they have received rabies vaccinations.
The ‘Rabies Free Mumbai’ Initiative:
The BMC is committed to making Mumbai ‘rabies free. ‘ As part of this initiative, a massive rabies vaccination campaign is planned for February 2024. The aim is to vaccinate approximately one lakh stray dogs in just ten days, significantly reducing the risk of rabies transmission.
Sterilization Goals:
According to the Animal Welfare Board of India, around 32, 000 dogs in Mumbai need to be sterilized annually. This means that roughly 365 dogs need to be sterilized every month. However, current statistics indicate that only 30% of the dogs are sterilized each year. This upcoming census will provide valuable insights into the success of BMC’s sterilization program.
Estimated Stray Dog Population:
Back in 2014, a survey estimated the presence of approximately 95, 000 stray dogs in Mumbai. However, it is believed that this number has surged to around 1, 64, 000. This rise is attributed to the rapid breeding rate of dogs, a high survival rate, and insufficient sterilization efforts.
Regional Variations:
Notably, certain areas, like Malad, Andheri, and Kurla, had the highest numbers of stray dogs in the 2014 census. These regions also have a significant proportion of non-sterilized and female dogs. Consequently, they are likely to continue having a higher population of stray dogs. It’s worth mentioning that dogs often migrate to areas with a more abundant food supply, leading to fluctuations in population in different parts of the city.
By understanding the current situation, BMC aims to implement more effective strategies to manage the stray dog population and reduce the risks associated with their presence in the city.