Panvel tackles stray dog conflicts with new helpline and shelter plans

The Animal Welfare Committee of Panvel Municipal Corporation (PMC) recently held a meeting to tackle human-animal conflict and stray animal management. The discussion covered key challenges, including the handling of complaints and the implementation of new regulations. Since 2018, PMC’s Animal Birth Control Centre has been sterilising and vaccinating stray dogs. In 2025, the programme vaccinated 15,689 dogs under the Zero Rabies Eradication initiative. By 2026, this number rose to 16,851.

The committee reviewed guidelines from the Supreme Court and the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI). It also addressed the difficulties police face when dealing with human-animal conflict complaints. PMC has now set up a grievance redressal system, which includes a dedicated ABC Helpline for stray animal issues.

Additionally, the corporation is regulating the feeding of stray dogs in public areas. It accepts applications for authorised feeding spots. Plans are also underway to build a shelter in Taloja for aggressive and potentially rabid dogs. PMC is enforcing the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023, to manage stray dogs within its limits. The new helpline and shelter aim to improve public safety and animal welfare. These measures follow national guidelines and local needs.