New Delhi

Delhi Mayor Raja Iqbal on Wednesday announced that the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) will soon start a dedicated helpline for residents to report aggressive or dangerous stray dogs. This initiative follows a Supreme Court directive instructing the relocation of stray dogs from public areas to ensure the safety of citizens.

Welcoming the court’s order, Iqbal said it recognised the concerns of Delhi residents and provided clear steps for action. In response, the MCD has launched a three-phase operation to manage the stray dog issue. In the first phase, we are focusing on stray dogs with the highest number of biting complaints and those causing the most public distress. These animals are being captured and moved to shelter homes, he explained.

The operation prioritises sensitive areas, including schools, hospitals, colleges, courts, markets, and other crowded public spaces. In the past two days, nearly 100 stray dogs have been removed from different localities. The MCD is coordinating with around 25 agencies to carry out this work. Currently, there are 20 Animal Birth Control (ABC) centres, many being converted into shelters. The largest facility in Dwarka is being expanded, and a new 25-acre shelter is planned at Goga Dairy.

Ahead of Independence Day, special focus is on locations like the Red Fort, Chandni Chowk, and surrounding areas to ensure visitor safety. Unlike earlier practices, captured dogs will not be returned to their original locations.

The new helpline will allow residents to directly inform the MCD about stray dogs posing risks, ensuring quick and effective action. This initiative aims to create safer public spaces while addressing citizens’ concerns about aggressive stray animals.