The Amritsar Municipal Corporation has taken a significant step towards enhancing urban ecology and animal care by deciding to form an 'Amritsar Citizens Environment Committee'. This initiative aims to address critical issues related to environmental protection and the welfare of dogs and other animals within the city.
Unanimous Decision in Key Meeting
In a recent meeting held by MC officials with dog lovers and environmental activists, the decision was unanimously reached to constitute this committee. The gathering focused on deliberating pressing matters concerning animal welfare, particularly for stray dogs, and strategies for environmental conservation in Amritsar.
Focus on Stray Dog Welfare
During the discussions, participants strongly emphasised the urgent need to ensure the well-being of stray dogs. A key suggestion that emerged was the creation of at least five designated feeding points in each ward of the city, providing a structured approach to care for these animals.
Committee Composition and Attendees
The meeting saw attendance from notable figures including cattle pond in-charge Geetu Sareen, R D Sharma, Deepak Babbar, and several dedicated environment activists and dog lovers from Amritsar. Their collective input helped shape the committee's framework.
Ongoing Projects and Future Plans
Additional Commissioner of Amritsar MC, Surinder Singh, provided insights into current and upcoming initiatives. He informed that an animal shelter project, coordinated with the SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), is currently underway. This project is designed to promote the welfare and protection of all types of animals in the region.
Learning from Best Practices
To enhance dog welfare efforts, an MC official recently visited a dog sanctuary in Ludhiana. The purpose of this visit was to study best practices and identify effective measures that can be implemented in Amritsar for the betterment of dogs.
Helpline and Sterilisation Efforts
Surinder Singh also announced the activation of a toll-free helpline number, 1800-180-3291, which will operate from 9 am to 5 pm on all working days. This helpline enables citizens to lodge complaints related to dogs and other animals, facilitating prompt action. Additionally, he confirmed that dog sterilisation work is already in progress at designated centres, aiming to control the stray dog population in a humane and ethical manner.
This comprehensive approach by the Amritsar Municipal Corporation reflects a growing commitment to integrating environmental stewardship with animal welfare, setting a precedent for urban management in India.
