Dehradun DM Orders Salary Withholding Over Poor Response on Animal Helpline 1962
Dedicated portal planned for registration and monitoring of stray and pet animals; dairy survey to be conducted across urban areas
DM stresses regular gaushala inspections, animal ambulance availability and effective management of stray dogs and monkeys
Dehradun: Dehradun District Magistrate Dr. Ashish Chauhan has directed officials to strengthen the management of stray and pet animals, improve animal welfare services and ensure public safety across the district.
During a review meeting held at the Rishiparna Auditorium on Wednesday, the DM issued instructions to officials from the Municipal Corporation, urban local bodies, the Animal Husbandry Department and other concerned departments regarding animal registration, dairy surveys, gaushala management, veterinary services and the functioning of the animal helpline.
The DM expressed strong displeasure over complaints of inadequate responses to calls made to animal helpline number 1962 and the reported unavailability of animal ambulances. He directed officials to fix accountability and improve service delivery.
Dedicated Portal for Animal Registration and Monitoring
Dr. Chauhan directed the Dehradun and Rishikesh Municipal Corporations, along with other urban local bodies, to develop a dedicated portal for the registration and monitoring of stray and pet animals.
The portal is intended to maintain organised records of animal populations, registration status and other relevant information. According to the DM, an updated digital database would help improve transparency, monitoring and the overall management of animals.
He also ordered a detailed survey of dairies operating within municipal corporation and urban local body limits. The survey will document the number of dairies, the total number of animals kept at these establishments and the registration status of the animals.
DM Tests Helpline 1962, Orders Accountability
To assess the actual functioning of the animal helpline, the DM personally called 1962. After not receiving the expected response, he expressed serious displeasure and directed the Chief Veterinary Officer to establish accountability and withhold the salaries of the personnel concerned.
He stressed that complaints relating to animal treatment, rescue and assistance must be addressed promptly. Officials were instructed to ensure time-bound disposal of complaints received through the helpline and closely monitor the availability and operation of animal ambulances so that animals in need can receive timely assistance.
Cameras to Monitor Animal Movement at Key Routes
The DM directed the installation of cameras at major entry and exit routes within municipal corporation and urban local body areas to monitor animal movement and support effective management.
He also called for a comprehensive action plan to capture and appropriately manage stray cattle. Gaushalas operating in the district must maintain adequate arrangements for fodder, drinking water, cleanliness, animal care and veterinary treatment in accordance with prescribed standards.
Officials have been instructed to conduct regular inspections of gaushalas, assess available facilities and monitor the condition of animals. Gaushala managers will also be directed to address deficiencies and maintain the required standards.
Improved Registration and Response System for Stray Dogs
Emphasising the management of pet and stray dogs, the DM directed officials to strengthen the registration system and respond swiftly to complaints involving dog bites.
He instructed the concerned departments to take necessary action through rapid rescue teams and ensure that relevant dogs are kept under 10-day observation and isolation at Animal Birth Control (ABC) centres, in accordance with applicable rules and protocols.
The DM stressed that complaints involving dogs must be handled promptly and sensitively, balancing public safety with prescribed animal welfare standards.
Coordinated Action to Address Monkey Menace
The DM also directed officials to take effective measures in residential areas affected by monkey-related problems. He instructed the concerned authorities to coordinate with the Forest Department and carry out rescue operations in accordance with applicable rules and prescribed standards.
He emphasised that all departments must work together to improve animal management, ensure regular monitoring and establish accountability. The overall objective is to strengthen animal welfare, protect public safety and resolve citizens’ complaints effectively.
Officials Attend Review Meeting
The meeting was attended by senior animal husbandry official and Municipal Corporation representative Dr. V.K. Agrawal, Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. D.K. Chand, Dehradun Municipal Corporation’s Dr. Rohit Gehlot, and officials and personnel from the Dehradun and Rishikesh Municipal Corporations and other urban local bodies.
