Islamabad : The Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad (MCI) held a high-level consultative meeting to develop a sustainable strategy for managing the city’s growing stray dog population. The session, chaired by MCI Chief Officer Dr. Anum Fatima, sought to balance public safety concerns with animal welfare requirements.
The meeting brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including veterinary experts, civil society members, animal rights activists, and representatives from local traders' associations and residential sectors.
The discussion highlighted a significant tension between resident safety and humane treatment. Representatives from the business community and local residents expressed urgent concerns regarding a recent spike in dog-bite incidents. They emphasized that the current situation has created a climate of fear—particularly for children and the elderly—and argued that the protection of human life must be the administration's primary objective.
Conversely, animal rights activists urged the MCI to view stray dogs as an integral part of the urban ecosystem. They advocated for "humane and harmonious" solutions, such as sterilization and vaccination programs, rather than culling, to ensure coexistence.
Following an extensive debate, the participants reached a consensus that a balanced, multi-pronged strategy is required. Key proposals discussed during the meeting included; Establishing secure, fenced areas to house stray dogs and remove them from high-traffic public spaces. Implementing formal control systems to monitor and manage the canine population. Identifying specific locations for citizens interested in adopting stray animals or providing food in a regulated, organized manner.
Chief Officer Dr. Anum Fatima acknowledged the complexity of the issue, noting that it has long been a point of contention for federal capital residents. She reaffirmed that while the MCI’s "foremost priority" is the protection of human life, all actions will remain strictly compliant with Islamabad High Court directives and international animal welfare standards.
