Vijayawada civic body steps up drive against stray dogs amid SC push

Vijayawada: With the Supreme Court reiterating strict measures to address the stray dog menace across public spaces, Vijayawada authorities on Tuesday initiated coordinated action to prevent stray dog movement near schools, hospitals, railway stations, and bus stands.

Vijayawada municipal commissioner HM Dhyanachandra instructed officials from civic, health, education, railway, and transport departments to take immediate preventive measures in high-footfall public institutions. The meeting identified stray dog movement and dog bite risks around educational institutions, hospitals, and other crowded public spaces as a serious safety concern requiring coordinated intervention. Officials were directed to strengthen fencing and gate systems at sensitive institutions, ensure regular inspections, and prevent indiscriminate dumping of food waste that attracts stray animals.

The civic body also asked sanitation teams to ensure garbage bins are inaccessible to dogs and directed sanitary inspectors to closely monitor food waste disposal. Health authorities were told to maintain coordination with PHCs on anti-rabies vaccines, first-aid availability, and dog bite management. Officials warned that departments responsible for public premises would be held accountable if preventive measures were not implemented. The commissioner said VMC would extend necessary support to institutions facing stray dog-related issues.

The development comes on the day the Supreme Court refused to dilute its earlier directions on stray dog management and stressed implementation of measures to keep stray dogs away from public institutions and sensitive spaces. The apex court rejected pleas seeking modification of its earlier orders and underlined that public safety, particularly in places such as schools, hospitals, bus depots, and railway stations cannot be ignored.