Pune: NIBM Annexe Residents Protest Against Stray Dog Menace, Pigeon Feeding, and Lack of Police Patrol

Kondhwa, 13th December 2024: NIBM Annexe residents have raised their voices against the rising incidents of dog bites, the growing menace of stray dogs, unauthorized pigeon feeding, and a lack of police patrolling in the area. Four cases of dog bites were recently reported in the K Raheja Circle area, intensifying concerns over public safety.

On Tuesday, approximately 40 residents, including several women, gathered at K Raheja Circle to demand immediate action from authorities. Social worker and former corporator Ashok Mehendale, along with PMC Health Inspector Navnath Shelar and his team, attended the meeting to address the residents’ grievances.

“Feeding stray dogs and pigeons in public areas has become a serious health and safety issue,” said Mehendale. “Dog bites are on the rise, and such practices are contributing to the problem. It is essential to implement strict measures to protect citizens.”

Residents also highlighted other issues, including a lack of police patrolling and incidents of drug use and open-air drinking along the road stretch from VIBGYOR School to Raheja Premier. They called for complete CCTV surveillance of the area to ensure public safety.

Health Inspector Navnath Shelar assured residents that steps would be taken to manage the stray dog population through sterilization and vaccination. He also promised to address the pigeon feeding issue, which has been causing health and hygiene concerns.

Area resident Sameer A. Chaudhary expressed gratitude for the community’s active participation, stating, “We thank all area residents for attending the meeting today. Your inputs were crucial in addressing these concerns. We also appreciate the guidance of Health Inspector Shelar, who outlined necessary actions to mitigate these issues effectively.”

Key takeaways from the meeting include:
Deployment of a Dog-Catching Van: A dedicated van will be stationed in the area for one month to manage the stray dog population effectively.
Monitoring and Prevention: PMC’s Health Department team will begin strict monitoring and enforcement against stray dog issues and pigeon feeding starting December 13, 2024.

Sterilization and Vaccination Programs: Immediate steps will be taken to humanely control the stray dog population through sterilization and vaccination.
Awareness Campaigns: Initiatives will be launched to educate residents on the adverse effects of pigeon feeding and promote hygienic practices.
Road Cleanliness: Regular road cleaning will be carried out to maintain a cleaner and healthier environment.

Former corporator Ashok Mehendale emphasized the importance of collective effort, saying, “The cooperation of all citizens is essential for maintaining a clean and safe environment. Let us continue working together to implement these solutions effectively. If anyone has further suggestions, please feel free to reach out.”

While the measures announced were welcomed, residents emphasized the need for strict implementation and sustained efforts. “We need consistent monitoring and timely action to ensure these issues are resolved effectively,” said a resident.

Among those present at the meeting were Imtiaz Naikwadi, Shyam Gangwani, Tarun Ramchandani, Rajesh Namase, Patric Michele, Imran Shaikh, Bhupesh Patil, Col B. B. Patra, Ajay Mehsharam, Col J. Rocque, Prabhat, Quamruddin Khan, Samina Engineer, Yuvaraj Deshmukh, J. S. Dabhole, Sayed Shakeel, Mayuri Shinde, Abhishekh, and Mariyam Shaikh.