Mandya DC directs local bodies to take urgent steps to control stray dog menace

Mandya: Acting on recent Supreme Court directives, Mandya deputy commissioner Kumara has instructed all urban and rural local bodies to take urgent, coordinated measures to tackle the rising stray dog menace.Chairing a review meeting at the DC's office on Monday, he announced that nodal officers would be appointed in every urban local body to closely monitor and implement control measures. The DC also directed authorities to construct compound walls around public buildings to enhance safety and prevent stray dog entry. Officials were instructed to ensure that dogs are kept out of bus stands and other heavily frequented public spaces.Public awareness campaigns will be launched to discourage people from dumping leftover food in open areas—one of the primary factors attracting stray animals.Focusing on population control and public health, Kumara stressed that all stray dogs must undergo sterilisation and be vaccinated against rabies before being moved to designated shelters. To support the initiative, eight shelters—one in every taluk—will be established under the jurisdiction of local bodies.Officials reported that 190 stray dogs were identified within institutional premises, including schools, colleges, hospitals, and bus stands. These locations will be prioritised for sterilisation drives and relocation.Emphasising the need for effective waste management, the DC directed authorities to ensure daily garbage collection and keep waste bins securely covered to prevent food waste from attracting stray dogs.