Acting on SC order, GHMC begins stray dog removal at Hyderabad govt hospitals

Hyderabad: The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has begun a large-scale operation to remove stray dogs from Government hospitals across the city, acting on a directive issued by the Supreme Court on November 7.

Action in line with Apex Court directive

The Supreme Court, in its recent order, directed all local bodies across India to ensure the removal of stray dogs from public premises, including educational institutions, hospitals, sports complexes, and transport hubs.

The court also specified that sterilised dogs should not be released back into these sensitive areas, mandating that they be relocated to designated facilities for continued care.

Following this order, the GHMC on Saturday, November 8, began implementing the directive in Hyderabad.

277 stray dogs relocated on first day

According to an official statement from GHMC, civic teams caught and relocated 277 stray dogs from various Government hospitals during the first day of the operation. The animals were moved to GHMC’s Animal Care Centres, where they will receive treatment and monitoring.

“The dogs will undergo sterilisation, vaccination and medical care before being housed in the centres for continued management,” the GHMC said in its statement.

Focus on public safety and compliance

Officials said the drive aims to enhance public safety and bring municipal facilities into compliance with the Supreme Court’s order. “The initiative is being carried out to ensure that public institutions remain safe and hygienic spaces while following the court’s directions,” a GHMC spokesperson said.

The civic body added that similar operations will soon be conducted in other public zones, including educational institutions and transport hubs.

Stray dog management in Hyderabad

Hyderabad has long faced challenges in managing its stray dog population. The GHMC’s Animal Birth Control (ABC) programme, which focuses on sterilisation and vaccination, has been the city’s primary approach to population control and rabies prevention.

However, concerns over public safety in sensitive locations, especially hospitals and schools, have prompted renewed focus following the Supreme Court’s intervention.

The latest directive marks a nationwide shift in how civic bodies are expected to manage stray animals, balancing animal welfare with public health and safety priorities.