BMC issues new guidelines for pet owners, stray animal care in Mumbai
BMC issues new guidelines for pet owners, stray animal care in Mumbai
In the backdrop of the nuisance being created by pet-owners and those caring for street dogs by feeding then on pavements near residential premises and at public places, the civic body has come up strongly and have introduced new guidelines based on Supreme Court orders and various circulars from the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI), and Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023.
The rules also aim to reduce conflict amid animal lovers and residents, and to ensure the well-being of both people and street animals in Mumbai.
It is learned that the new guidelines cover important areas such as feeding street dogs, licensing pet dogs, responsibilities of societies, and handling of animals in public spaces.
There has been a steep rise in number of people keeping dogs as household companions and those feeding street dogs in public places quite oblivious to civic sense.
Major points from the new guidelines-
For Animal feeders and care givers:
*Feeding of street dogs and cats is legal and protected by law.
*Feeders should do so at designated, clean spots away from children’s areas and public pathways.
*Feeding must be hygienic and should not involve raw meat or leftover food.
*Feeders should help with sterilisation and vaccination of the animals.
*Feeding should be done early morning or late evening when public movement is low.
For housing societies (RWAs / AOAs):
*Societies cannot ban pets or decide pet size. Such restrictions go against citizens’ fundamental rights.
*Societies should not restrict feeding of street animals, but can set feeding times and locations in consultation with residents.
*Animal cruelty, harassment of feeders, or abandoning pets are punishable offences.
*Societies are encouraged to form Animal Welfare Committees as per ABC Rules 2023.
Guidelines for pet owners-
*All pet dogs must be registered with the BMC under Section 191B of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act, 1888 that provides for granting of license to the owner of a dog or a person in charge of a dog who has paid the taxes levied on such dog. Keeping unlicensed dogs is illegal.
*Owners must keep their pets clean, vaccinated, dewormed, and preferably sterilised.
*Dogs must be kept on a leash in public. Pet owners must clean up after their pets when they defecate in public places.
*Pets are allowed in lifts and public spaces. Societies cannot ban them. However, alternate lifts may be suggested.
*Aggressive behaviour by pets should be addressed. Children under 18 must not walk dogs alone.
Guidelines for schools, tech parks and public institutions:
*Animals like dogs or cats living in the premises must not be relocated. They should be sterilised and vaccinated, and returned to the same area.
*Institutions must provide food, water, and shelter for community animals.
*Staff must be trained to handle animals without cruelty.
– Signs and awareness messages should be placed around campus to educate people on coexisting with animals.
For any complaints, licensing issues, or information related to animal care, the public can contact the BMC Dog Control Unit through the helpline number- 9635839888. The complaints can also be written on the website: https://vhd.mcgm.gov.in/
News Edit KV Raman
