The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) took proactive measures on Sunday to ensure a smooth and safe F4 event in the city. They captured 42 stray dogs from areas surrounding the race track, including Island Grounds, Sivananda Salai, and Kamarajar Salai. The dogs were taken to the Pulianthope pound for sterilization and will be released back into their respective areas once the event concludes.
GCC veterinary officer J Kamal Hussain explained the reasoning behind the operation. “Dogs may jump medians and enter the track, which could cause disruptions during the race,” he said. “There are also openings in some stretches of the track, which could pose a risk to both the dogs and the participants.”
This action came after a stray dog entered the race track on Saturday, interrupting free practice. Around 50 dog catchers and 10 vehicles were involved in the capture operation.
The incident highlights the ongoing issue of stray dogs in urban areas, and the need for effective management strategies. In addition to Chennai’s efforts, other cities are also working to address the problem.
Ghaziabad, for example, is planning to open a third animal birth control center in Siddharth Vihar, aiming to increase the sterilization rate from 30 to 150 dogs per day. This new facility, expected to be operational by February, will contribute to the city’s goal of managing its stray dog population.
However, the issue is not without its challenges. In Bengaluru, a 76-year-old retired teacher, Rajdulari Sinha, was tragically killed by a pack of stray dogs while on a morning walk at the Jalahalli East Air Force Station’s residential camp. Despite being rushed to the hospital, she succumbed to her injuries. Police have registered an unnatural death case and are investigating the incident.
These cases illustrate the need for comprehensive solutions to the stray dog problem, involving responsible animal control, increased sterilization programs, and public awareness campaigns to foster responsible pet ownership.
