PMC Identifies 88 Designated Spots for Feeding Stray Dogs Across Pune

Pune, 26th February 2026: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has so far identified 88 locations across the city where stray dogs can be fed, following a citywide exercise carried out with inputs from animal welfare volunteers and feeders. Civic officials said the initiative aims to bring some structure to stray animal feeding while ensuring public hygiene and safety.

According to the civic administration, the decision aligns with 2025 guidelines issued by the Supreme Court, which direct local bodies to earmark suitable spaces for feeding community animals. Acting on this, the Pune Municipal Corporation had last year invited animal lovers to suggest potential feeding spots.

Officials said the response to the appeal has been steady, with nearly 25 suggestions received every month through social media, emails and in-person submissions. These proposals were first grouped area-wise to avoid duplication, after which on-ground inspections were conducted to assess feasibility.

Head of the PMC’s veterinary department, Sarika Funde, said that each suggested location is verified by a civic team before being approved. She added that feeders at designated spots have been instructed to ensure cleanliness and avoid inconvenience to residents or pedestrians.

The move has drawn mixed reactions from citizens and animal welfare workers. Some residents have welcomed the step, saying it could help streamline feeding practices and reduce conflicts. Kothrud resident Sonali Kulkarni said earmarked locations could lead to better management of feeding activities and even allow for temporary water facilities for animals.

However, concerns have also been raised about the approach. A long-time feeder said she has not applied for a designated feeding point, noting that court guidelines discourage setting up feeding zones along busy roads. She argued that community animals are part of neighbourhood streets and markets, and many feeders have been responsibly feeding them for years by choosing low-footfall areas to avoid disturbance.

Civic officials also pointed out that housing societies have been repeatedly urged since 2021 to allocate space within their premises for feeding community animals. Despite this, only 56 societies have come forward with designated areas over the past five years, highlighting the challenges the administration continues to face in implementing the policy citywide.