Daijiworld Media Network - Chennai

Chennai, Feb 11: Weeks after the Supreme Court’s eight-week deadline to clear stray dogs from public spaces lapsed, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) is still struggling to establish a comprehensive relocation system, with limited shelter capacity slowing progress.

In November 2025, the Supreme Court directed civic bodies to remove stray dogs from public areas, citing rising public safety concerns. In response, the GCC announced financial incentives in December, offering Rs 50 per dog per day for feeding and Rs 750 per day for shelters housing more than 20 dogs.

Despite these measures, most NGOs have been hesitant to participate, citing insufficient infrastructure and space constraints. Officials confirmed that nearly all authorized shelters are already operating at full capacity.

The Tamil Nadu Animal Welfare Board (TNAB) provided a list of eight approved NGOs, but none currently have the capacity to accommodate additional dogs. Discussions are ongoing with two organisations, while other willing groups on the city outskirts face similar limitations.

So far, only limited action has been taken. Recently, 40 stray dogs were removed from the Madras High Court premises, with 21 shifted to an NGO shelter in Nemmeli and the remainder adopted. Meanwhile, a city-wide survey to estimate the stray dog population, promised by the GCC, has yet to begin.

To address the space shortage, the GCC has identified land in Madhavaram and Velachery to build two dedicated shelters. Each facility will house up to 250 dogs, including those suspected of rabies, canine distemper, or aggressive behaviour. Tenders have been floated for NGOs to manage the shelters, with construction and operational work expected to be completed by the end of March.

GCC veterinary officer J. Kamal Hussain said the upcoming shelters will include open spaces, separate kennels, and individual enclosures for high-risk animals to ensure better disease control and public safety.

However, delays have drawn criticism from residents. Local welfare groups warn that stray dogs continue to pose risks near government schools and urban primary health centres. “Despite repeated complaints, nothing has changed. It’s becoming a serious public safety issue,” said Ernavoor Civic Welfare Association Secretary S. Ramesh Kumar.

With the court’s deadline already exceeded, concerns remain over Chennai’s preparedness to manage its stray dog population effectively.