Kolkata, Oct. 16 -- Stray dogs can be fed only at designated spots under new guidelines issued by the Bengal government, which direct municipalities to keep feeding areas away from children's play areas, walking zones and crowded places.
A memorandum issued by the state government's Urban Development and Municipal Affairs department has directed municipal corporations, municipalities and notified area authorities to earmark suitable feeding areas in every ward for community dogs, cats and other stray animals.
The designated spots must not obstruct roads or footpaths or block entrances and exits, or the frontage of houses, buildings and shops.
Urban local bodies have been asked to prepare lists of animal caregivers and issue identity cards to them. They may also construct small cemented platforms for providing food and drinking water.
The guidelines propose two feeding slots - before 7 am and after 7 pm - for a minimum of two hours each. The exact timings will be specified by the respective municipal authorities. Feeding must take place only at designated spots and within the prescribed hours.
Caregivers have been advised to avoid littering and clean feeding sites after use. They may seek police assistance if disputes arise. Feeding animals outside designated areas may attract penalties under applicable municipal laws governing the depositing or throwing of solid waste.
The memorandum also states that nobody can prohibit, harass or obstruct caregivers who feed animals in compliance with the guidelines. It recommends using disposable plates, which should be discarded in nearby bins, or paper, including newspaper pieces, for feeding.
All urban local bodies have been directed to publicise the designated locations, timings and other guidelines to raise public awareness. They must also submit reports to the department detailing the steps taken to implement the measures.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.