SC’s Stray Dog Sterilization Order Could Cost Delhi 2400 Crore Rupees

Supreme Court’s order on stray dogs is pragmatic but implementation is a mammoth financial task. Sterilizing Delhi’s strays alone may cost ₹2400 crore, highlighting huge logistical and infrastructural hurdles.

New Delhi: The latest decision taken by the Supreme Court regarding stray dogs undoubtedly seems to be a balanced and inclusive approach, taking into account the sentiments and concerns of both dog lovers and dog haters. However, putting this landmark decision into practice is as challenging as ensuring it is implemented.

The main challenge is financial and resourceful. According to the article, there are an estimated 8 lakh stray dogs in the Delhi-NCR region alone. Now if the cost of sterilization and vaccination of each dog is assessed, the minimum cost of the surgical procedure and subsequent care alone comes to around Rs 2400 crore. This is a huge amount for just one city.

But this expense is not limited to sterilization alone. Apart from this, there are many other important expenses that have to be considered. These include:

• The cost of trapping the dogs: To safely trap so many dogs, special teams, equipment, and vehicles will be required, which will cost extra.
• Human resources:  The mission will require a sufficient number of veterinary doctors, technicians, and support staff, whose salaries and training will be costly.
• Infrastructure: Sufficient modern sterilization centers, shelter homes, and temporary cages will have to be built to treat, house, and care for thousands of dogs.

Now just think if such a huge amount of money is required for just one city, the cost of implementing this policy across the country would be unimaginable, putting a giant strain on the government exchequer.  The entire process and complexities of sterilization is not just a medical procedure but a complex logistical and financial operation.

‘No Public Feeding’ to stray dogs; Non-aggressive dogs be released after vaccination: Supreme Court

The Supreme Court today on Friday pronounced its decision on multiple petitions challenging its August 11 order regarding stray dogs in Delhi-NCR. The Top Court ordered that no public feeding of dogs will be allowed, and dedicated feeding spaces for stray dogs must be created.

The Supreme Court modified its 11 August verdict and said that stray dogs will be released back to the same area after sterilisation and immunisation, except those infected with rabies or exhibiting aggressive behaviour.