Srinagar, Nov 25 (JKNS): Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) has issued a public advisory reminding residents and local bodies of their responsibility to ensure proper feeding and care of community animals under the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023.
According to a public notice issued by the Municipal Veterinary Officer as per news agency JKNS, the rules notified by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying mandate that Resident Welfare Associations, Apartment and Mohalla Committees, Local Body representatives, and animal welfare volunteers must make necessary arrangements for feeding community animals within their areas.
SMC said designated feeding points must be identified mutually, keeping in view dog population, territory patterns, and public safety. The feeding points should be away from children’s play areas, entry and exit gates, staircases, and other locations frequently used by senior citizens.
The notice adds that feeding timings must also be fixed to avoid inconvenience to the public, especially school-going children and elderly residents.
Designated feeders have been asked to ensure that no littering takes place at feeding sites and that guidelines set by local associations are strictly followed. They have also been permitted to assist the Corporation in vaccination, catching, and release of dogs under the ABC programme.
SMC has appealed to the general public—particularly local associations, volunteers, and animal welfare activists to participate in feeding community animals as a humane and compassionate gesture. (JKNS)
