Patna: Patna Municipal Corporation has started a major campaign to control the increasing number of stray dogs in the city, especially in hospitals and large government institutions. This decision was taken after many people were bitten by stray dogs, creating fear among patients, doctors and visitors. To deal with the problem, the municipal corporation has joined hands with all medical college hospitals. The campaign has been launched at IGIMS, which will act as the pilot project for the entire city and later for other districts as well.
On the first day of the campaign at IGIMS, a team from the municipal corporation and the animal husbandry department worked together to catch stray dogs inside the campus. Around 10 dogs were safely caught and given anti-rabies vaccinations. Dr Manish Mandal, Medical Superintendent of IGIMS, has been made the nodal officer to manage the programme. Officials said the aim is not to harm the animals but to control their numbers and make hospital areas safe and peaceful.
The municipal corporation has clearly stated that this drive will soon be started in other major hospitals such as PMCH, NMCH and AIIMS Patna, along with district hospitals across Bihar. Every hospital will have to count the number of stray dogs on their premises and submit a report. Based on these numbers, further steps like vaccination, relocation and shelter arrangements will be taken so that patients do not feel unsafe when coming for treatment.
The campaign has become stricter after directions from the Supreme Court, which has asked local bodies to build shelter homes for stray dogs. These shelters will provide a safe place for the animals instead of leaving them on busy roads or hospital grounds. The municipal corporation has also said that it cannot handle this task alone. All government and semi-government institutions must now help by counting dogs and sharing data.
Apart from hospitals, many big educational institutions such as Patna University, Patliputra University and IIT Bihta will also be included in this campaign. Letters will soon be sent to them asking for full cooperation. Officials believe that if this system works well in Patna, it can become a model for other cities too. This step is expected to bring relief to citizens and create a safer environment for everyone.
