Public safety hangs in the balance in Chennai, where stray dogs continue to roam freely despite the Supreme Court’s expired deadline. The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) cites shelter shortages as the main hurdle in shifting these animals from public zones.
In a landmark November 2023 ruling, the Supreme Court gave civic bodies eight weeks to act, driven by escalating threats to pedestrians, children, and the elderly. GCC rolled out financial aid last December—Rs 50 daily per dog for sustenance and Rs 750 for shelters with 20+ animals.
Incentives haven’t sparked action. Overloaded shelters and infrastructure deficits deter NGOs. Virtually all approved facilities are full, officials confirm. Though TNAWB listed eight NGOs, none can accommodate more strays right now.
Discussions with two entities are ongoing, alongside challenges for suburban groups. Limited wins include evacuating 40 dogs from Madras High Court: 21 to Nemmeli, balance adopted. A comprehensive stray count survey promised citywide is yet to launch.
GCC’s fix: prime land in Madhavaram and Velachery for dedicated 250-dog shelters targeting diseased or aggressive strays. Tenders to NGOs promise construction and operations by March’s close. This protracted response highlights the need for better planning in animal welfare. Chennai’s residents await real change before more incidents occur.