On Friday in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala’s Local Self‑Government Minister M.B. Rajesh said the Supreme Court’s order to remove all stray dogs from the state’s streets is unrealistic.
The minister pointed out that many residents already protest against setting up Animal Birth Control (ABC) shelters. “If people oppose even a single shelter, how can we remove every stray dog?” he asked.
Rajesh said the state has not yet received a copy of the court’s directive. A detailed reply will come once the government reviews the order.
The Supreme Court’s direction poses a big logistical challenge. The state must find land for shelters, build proper facilities, and staff them with enough personnel. Many of Kerala’s existing ABC centers are underused, and the state has only 595 animal catchers to handle the problem.
The latest Livestock Census shows Kerala has more than 280,000 stray dogs. Last year, only 15,825 were sterilised, and this financial year 9,737 have had the procedure. The state runs 19 ABC centres, some of which are not fully operational.
Local opposition is a major hurdle. To address this, officials have suggested portable ABC units that can be set up quickly. But if people reject even these mobile units, establishing permanent shelters could become nearly impossible.
Earlier, planners considered using uninhabited forest fringes for new shelters. Each dog would need its own kennel, and more catchers and staff would be required.
Because of the high costs and logistical constraints, Kerala is still weighing its options. A clear plan is expected after further ministerial consultations and a meeting with the Animal Welfare Board.
Source: ianslive
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
