Shimla launches ‘Rabies-Free Shimla’ initiative with GPS and QR code collars for stray dogs

PTC Web Desk: Shimla will now be able to easily identify dangerous stray dogs through a new initiative launched by the Municipal Corporation, titled “Rabies-Free Shimla.” The programme was inaugurated on Saturday by Shimla MLA Harish Janartha.

Under this initiative, stray dogs are being fitted with smart collars equipped with QR codes and GPS trackers. These collars will make it easier to identify whether a stray dog has been vaccinated and to track its health and movement status. The aim of this step is to reduce the growing menace of stray dogs in the city.

The Municipal Corporation of Shimla will provide all stray dogs with GPS-enabled smart collars containing QR codes that store the complete vaccination and health record of the dog. The collars will also be colour-coded to indicate the level of threat a dog may pose. The most dangerous stray dogs will be fitted with red collars for easy identification from a distance, while other dogs will have different coloured collars based on their risk category.

Mayor Surinder Chauhan informed that the corporation, in collaboration with private organisations, has already vaccinated more than 2,200 stray dogs. He added that the target is to vaccinate 4,000 stray dogs in the city, and the drive is being carried out on a war footing to meet this goal soon.

Chauhan further said the Municipal Corporation will extend this campaign to 17 nearby panchayats, as their stray dog population also affects the city. For this, discussions will be held with the Chief Minister , departmental ministers, and local representatives to ensure wider participation and control over the menace of stray and dangerous dogs.

To minimise dog-bite incidents, the Mayor announced that designated feeding zones will be set up in the city. People will only be allowed to feed stray dogs in these zones, and strict action will be taken against those violating the rules.