GMC launches pilot dog feeding sheds

Guntur: In an initiative aimed at scientifically addressing the stray dog issue and preventing conflicts between residents and animal lovers, the Guntur Municipal Corporation (GMC) has launched special “dog feeding sheds” in select parts of the city on a pilot basis. GMC commissioner K Mayur Ashok said the sheds were introduced to facilitate regular dog feeders and improve sanitation management in the city. He said that the decision has been taken following the Supreme Court verdict on the issue. As part of the first phase, the corporation has set up the sheds in three locations, including key areas in Rami Reddy Nagar and AT Agraharam limits.The commissioner said indiscriminate feeding of stray dogs on roads and in open public spaces was leading to sanitation problems and causing dogs to gather in groups, increasing the risk of attacks on residents, particularly children and pedestrians. He stated that the project was designed as a long-term solution to reduce stray dog movement and attacks in residential areas, while also preventing the accumulation of food waste on roads that could attract mosquitoes and flies. Mayur Ashok appealed to animal lovers and residents to feed stray dogs and provide water only at the designated dog feeding sheds set up by the corporation instead of feeding them on roadsides or in public places.He said the initiative would help dogs get accustomed to gathering and feeding at fixed locations in a disciplined manner, thereby reducing inconvenience and fear among the public. The commissioner urged citizens to cooperate with the GMC’s efforts in making Guntur a safer and cleaner city.