SMC wakes up to growing stray dog menace

Srinagar, Feb 23: The Commissioner SMC, Dr. Owais Ahmad today conducted a review of the Municipal Veterinary Wing.

During the meeting, the Municipal Veterinary Officer (MVO) presented a detailed overview of the activities undertaken by the Municipal Veterinary Wing.

The Commissioner discussed the persistent issue of stray dog menace and it was informed that the SMC has implemented comprehensive measures to address this concern.

The MVO informed that the Animal Birth Control and Anti Rabies Vaccination Programme, aligned with the Animal Birth Control Rules of 2023, are actively underway. He also informed that currently, the SMC operates two Sterilisation and Rabies Immunization Centers (ABC Centers), with the Shuhama center operational under an MOU with SKUAST, and the Tengpora centre functional since last year.

The outsourcing of the ABC Programme, coupled with the establishment of the Tengpora center, has resulted in a record number of the stray dog sterilization surgeries and rabies immunization, he added.

Dr Owais stressed that community participation is not just an option but a necessity for the success of the ABC programme. He reiterated the corporation's commitment to working closely with the community to ensure that the programme aligns with the needs and expectations of the people it serves.

The Commissioner sought progress of construction of the third ABC Centre at Chaterhama and it was informed that the construction is going on a war footing basis and is expected to be completed by May 2024 within the stipulated time frame.

He also sought the progress of development of Modern Abattoir at Alochi. It was informed that the Abattoir is poised to be a cutting-edge facility, fully mechanised to optimise efficiency with a remarkable capacity to slaughter 5000 sheep or goat per day.

The Abattoir will operate two slaughter lines, capable of processing 120 heads per hour in three shifts. The comprehensive Abattoir complex encompasses key components such as a state-of-the-art Slaughter Hall, a custom-built Effluent Treatment Plant, a Solid Waste Rendering Plant, and a By-product Recovery system.

Additionally, the facility includes provisions for a chilling room, ensuring optimal storage conditions, along with necessary utilities and off-site facilities.

The Commissioner directed to expedite the construction work of ABC Centre, Chatterhama in a time bound manner so that ABC & ARV activities are expanded to cover maximum number of stray dogs, also and to resume the dog sterilisation and anti-rabies immunization programme keeping in view of the weather condition.

The commissioner also directed to expedite the construction work of Modern Abattoir within the given time frame.

The meeting was attended by the Joint Commissioner (S), Joint Commissioner (Works), Municipal Veterinary Officer, Executive Engineer Right River Works Division, and Purchase & Procurement Officer.