India, Nov. 8 -- Former Union Minister Vijay Goel on Thursday welcomed the Supreme Court's order directing the removal of stray dogs from public places, describing it as a "big and historic decision."

Goel said Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) across Delhi had "heaved a sigh of relief" after the order, as they now expect gradual removal of stray dogs from public areas.

The Supreme Court, in its directive, has asked authorities to remove stray dogs from sensitive locations such as hospitals, educational institutions, bus depots, railway stations and sports complexes.

These dogs, after sterilisation and vaccination, will be shifted to shelter homes instead of being released back into the same localities.

Calling the move balanced an...