After a year-long delay, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has finally launched a comprehensive census of stray dogs and domestic animals in Mumbai. The census, commencing on January 16, marks a significant step as it includes counting the number and breeds of pet dogs for the first time. The survey is being conducted in collaboration with Humane Society International, Youth Organization in Defence of Animals, and Zimax Tech Solutions.
Stray dogs will be surveyed by Humane Society International, while pets will be surveyed by Youth Organization in Defence of Animals and Zimax Tech Solutions. The census aims to determine the current population of stray dogs and pets in Mumbai, providing a comparison with the figures from 2014. This information will inform animal birth control programs, allowing for targeted efforts in areas where the stray dog population has increased. Dr. Kalimpasha Pathan, General Manager of Deonar Abattoir, emphasized that the survey findings would offer insights into the current status of stray dogs and facilitate improvements.
In 2014, the census recorded about 95,127 stray dogs in Mumbai, with BMC officials suggesting that the number may have nearly doubled since then. Of these stray dogs, 25,935 were unsterilized, consisting of 14,674 males and 11,261 females. BMC officials noted that an unsterilized female dog can give birth to at least four puppies within a year, contributing to the exponential increase in the dog population.
Estimating the current dog population in the city at around 1.64 lakh, BMC acknowledges the importance of an accurate census. The census will provide crucial data on the male-female ratio, population distribution in specific areas, and the potential for sterilization and vaccination programs. This comprehensive approach aims to control the dog population, reduce dog bites, and address health issues for humans.
While the BMC has sterilized around 90,000 stray dogs since 2018, the city continues to witness an average of 60,000 dog bite cases annually. Although the number of reported cases decreased after the COVID-19 pandemic, the specific reasons for the decline remain unspecified.
