Chandigarh: In a significant policy shift on stray animal management, the Punjab Government is preparing to introduce designated “no-go zones” for stray dogs and cattle across the state. The initiative comes amid growing public concern over increasing dog-bite incidents and follows recent criticism surrounding remarks made by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on the issue of stray dogs.
Officials from the Local Government Department said a detailed action plan is being finalised to control the movement of stray animals in sensitive and high-traffic areas. The strategy is reportedly being framed in accordance with Supreme Court guidelines and existing animal welfare regulations.
Under the proposed framework, highways and important public spaces will be declared restricted zones for stray animals. Authorities are currently identifying vulnerable areas where strict monitoring and enforcement measures will be introduced. Senior officials stated that nodal officers would be appointed to supervise implementation at the district and departmental levels.
The government is also planning to strengthen infrastructure for animal control and rehabilitation. Punjab presently has only 18 Animal Birth Control (ABC) centres, and officials have proposed establishing such facilities in all 23 districts to improve sterilisation efforts. At present, nearly 3,500 stray dogs undergo sterilisation every month in the state.
Data from health authorities has highlighted the seriousness of the situation. Punjab reportedly witnessed more than 3.34 lakh dog-bite incidents in 2025, with over 1.37 lakh cases recorded during the first four months alone. Officials say the numbers underline the urgent need for a coordinated response.
The department has additionally proposed building more shelters for stray dogs, as the state currently operates only one dedicated sanctuary. These shelters are expected to function under the provisions of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and Animal Birth Control Rules to ensure humane treatment of animals.
Punjab Local Government Minister Harjot Bains said comprehensive guidelines for departments and local bodies would be released shortly. According to officials, the first phase of the plan will focus heavily on highways, where civic agencies, police, transport authorities, and National Highways officials will jointly conduct drives to remove stray cattle and animals from roads.
Emergency helpline signboards are also expected to be installed along major routes so commuters can quickly report animal-related obstructions or accidents.
Several public places — including schools, colleges, hospitals, parks, sports complexes, railway stations, bus stands, religious sites and airports — have been identified as priority locations where preventive measures will be enforced.
Departments managing these facilities will be directed to strengthen boundary fencing, improve gates, and adopt proper waste disposal systems within a fixed timeline to prevent stray animals from gathering near public areas.
The Punjab Government is expected to formally unveil the statewide action plan later this week as authorities aim to balance public safety concerns with animal welfare measures.
