MCD marks 16 of 735 identified feeding spots for stray dogs

As many as 735 feeding spots for stray dogs have been identified across 250 wards in Delhi while signages have been installed at 16 locations, Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) data show.

This comes months after the Supreme Court directed the civic body to designate feeding spots for the stray dogs.

Meanwhile, residents’ welfare associations and feeders have repeatedly pointed out that until these spots are marked, public feeding cannot be controlled. In September, MCD Standing Committee chairperson Satya Sharma said they would identify 1,000 feeding spots – four in each ward – for stray dogs.

‘Heavy compensation’

The top court on Tuesday said that it could impose “heavy compensation” on States and fix accountability on individuals feeding stray dogs in cases of dog-bite injuries or deaths. The court noted that such attacks often have lifelong consequences and questioned why feeders should not take responsibility by keeping animals within their premises.

According to the data, between April and November 2025, only 68,408 stray dogs were sterilised and immunised. While the monthly average crossed 10,000 dogs between April and June, it fell to 9,353 in July and the figure further dropped to 5,096 in August. Though the figure rose to 8,112 in September, it declined again to 6,350 in October and 7,435 in November – well below the earlier average. In comparison, 1,31,137 dogs underwent the procedure in 2024.

Delhi has 20 animal birth control centres run by 13 non-governmental organisations (NGOs) under MCD supervision. As per the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023, these centres must achieve 80% sterilisation in their respective areas. NGOs are paid ₹1,000 per dog for sterilisation and immunisation, but payments have reportedly been pending since March 2025.

“An expenditure of Rs 13.5 crore has been approved by the Standing Committee and the House, including payments to NGOs. However, it will take another month to initiate payments,” an MCD official said, adding that payments will be made every month.

The MCD recently submitted a status report to the Supreme Court on feeding points, dog shelters and highway patrolling teams for stray cattle. The court, which is hearing the matter to frame a national framework for stray dog management, said it would continue hearings on January 15.

In the report, it also mentioned that two patrolling teams of seven members each have been formed, for nighttime to pick and move stray cattle from highways.