GVMC Set to Sterilise 15,000 Stray Dogs in Visakhapatnam

The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation has requested the Animal Husbandry Department (AHD) of the State government to seek assistance in sterilizing stray dogs in Visakhapatnam. While the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation currently operates just one animal shelter in Arilova, the AHD has veterinary clinics located at China Gadili, Gandhigram, Gopalapatnam, Gajuwaka, and a veterinary polyclinic near Jagadamba Junction.

The collaborative effort between the civic body and the AHD aims to perform sterilization surgeries on 15,000 stray dogs, with 8,000 females and 7,000 males targeted. This comprehensive initiative is set to commence on July 24, utilizing all available operation theatres with the support of the AHD. To execute the program effectively, fifteen dedicated dog-catching teams will be deployed. As part of the process, rabies vaccines will also be administered to the stray dogs before releasing them back into the areas from which they were captured.

Dr. N. Kishore, the Veterinary Officer of GVMC, expressed that only 25 surgeries were previously conducted at their own animal shelter in Arilova. However, with the collaboration and assistance from the AHD, they expect to perform approximately 150 surgeries per day, reaching the target of 15,000 surgeries. A meeting regarding the sterilization program will be held today in the presence of the Mayor, paving the way for the program’s official launch on July 24.

The GVMC has projected the overall cost of the operation to be ₹ five lakhs (₹250 for the sterilization and vaccination of each dog).

The issue of stray dogs is particularly severe in areas such as Arilova, Kancharapalem, Vepagunta, Bhimili, Anakapalli, Madhurawada, Sagar Nagar, Visalakshingar, Pendurthi, Gajuwaka, Gopalapatnam, Maharanipeta, and Venkojipalem.

Dr. Kishore emphasized that controlling the stray dog population can be achieved by raising citizens’ awareness about adequately maintaining the streets. He highlighted the historic role of dogs in deterring theft and the scientific significance of their place within the ecosystem.