Just a day after the Supreme Court directed the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to create dedicated feeding zones for stray dogs, the civic body has begun identifying suitable locations within municipal wards to serve as official feeding points. The move comes as part of a broader plan to curb dog attacks while ensuring animal welfare.

The top court, in its latest order, made it clear that feeding strays in open streets and public spaces will no longer be permitted, with only authorised feeding areas being allowed.

Following the order, MCD Standing Committee Chairperson Satya Sharma immediately convened a meeting with officials to draft a time-bound action plan. Speaking to PTI, Sharma said: “The action plan must be implemented strictly in accordance with the Supreme Court’s directions, while safeguarding both public safety and animal welfare.”

As part of its upcoming measures, the MCD is preparing to establish two new shelters for aggressive and rabid dogs in Dwarka’s Sector 29 and Bela Road, where sufficient land, kennels, and Animal Birth Control (ABC) centres are available. An MCD official confirmed that these facilities would be used to contain aggressive dogs while supporting the sterilisation drive.

Sharma emphasised the urgent need for a comprehensive sterilisation programme and said that the civic body is collaborating with animal welfare organisations and NGOs to ensure the rehabilitation of strays. “Our aim is not merely to reduce the stray dog population but to create a balanced system that protects citizens while respecting animal rights,” he added.

The action plan follows the Supreme Court’s August 11 order, which had initially barred the release of sterilised stray dogs, sparking confusion among civic authorities. On Friday, however, a bench of Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta and NV Anjaria modified that stance, allowing the release of sterilised and de-wormed dogs, except for those deemed aggressive or rabies-infected.