Lucknow, Sept. 7 -- In a move to address the rising incidents of stray dog bites and streamline animal welfare practices in cities, the Uttar Pradesh urban development department has issued updated guidelines for all urban local bodies.

The new directive, which aligns with the Animal Birth Control (Dogs) Rules, 2023 and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, attempts to balance public safety and humane treatment of animals.

Designated feeding zones

The circular requires municipal corporations and municipalities to establish designated feeding zones for stray dogs, keeping them away from children's play areas, school vicinities and senior citizen zones.

Feeding activities are to be restricted to low-traffic hours, and feeders ...