Sri Lanka, Oct. 1 -- Anuradhapura will soon be recognized as the first district in Sri Lanka to eradicate rabies, with the district's flag set to be hoisted to mark the milestone, Animal Welfare Coalition (AWC) Executive Committee Member Dr. Chamith Nanayakkara announced.

Speaking at the World Rabies Day Appreciation Awards in Anuradhapura, Dr. Nanayakkara said the initiative faced unique challenges, as many people brought puppies and grown dogs into the town. "People cannot offer elephants to temples, so they bring puppies instead. Some businessmen have even paid others to release dogs near temples," he said.

The AWC launched its rabies eradication programme by identifying 30 key locations in Anuradhapura Muncipal Council area. Over th...