To address growing concerns over dog bites and disputes arising from the public feeding of dogs, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has introduced a new policy to regulate the feeding and registration of pet and stray dogs across the city.
Under the policy, the civic body has identified 126 designated locations where feeding of stray dogs will be allowed. Signboards are being installed at these spots to spread awareness and ensure adherence to the new rules.
Civic officials said strict action, including fines, will be taken against those feeding dogs at locations not notified by the AMC. Detailed rules are also being finalised to strengthen enforcement of the policy.
As part of the framework, pet dog owners who fail to register their animals with the municipal corporation may face penalties of up to ₹50,000. Officials said the measure is aimed at increasing accountability among pet owners and improving monitoring systems.
The policy has been introduced amid a steady rise in dog bite cases reported from various parts of Ahmedabad. Unregulated feeding of stray dogs in public areas has often led to conflicts between residents, animal feeders and local communities, apart from raising safety concerns.
“Designated feeding zones have been identified to balance animal welfare with public safety. Awareness will be created through signboards and outreach drives, but violations will attract strict action once the rules are enforced,” a senior AMC official said.
According to the civic body, the new policy is intended to bring clarity and uniformity in dealing with issues related to pet and stray dogs, while ensuring safer and more orderly public spaces. Further guidelines and enforcement measures are expected in the coming weeks.