New Regulations for Stray Dogs in Prayagraj: Life Imprisonment for Repeat Offenders

In Prayagraj, authorities have enacted new regulations to address the rising incidents of aggressive stray dogs. Under these rules, dogs that bite humans will be quarantined and microchipped, with severe penalties for repeat offenders, including life imprisonment in an ABC center. The city is also focusing on vaccination and sterilization efforts to control the stray dog population, which has exceeded 115,000. Despite these initiatives, public engagement remains low, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the measures. Discover more about the city's approach to managing stray dogs and ensuring community safety.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 19, 2026, 06:39 IST

New Measures for Stray Dogs

In response to the increasing incidents of aggressive stray dogs attacking humans in Prayagraj, local authorities have implemented significant new regulations. According to the latest directive from the government, any dog that bites a person for the first time will be quarantined at an ABC (Animal Birth Control) center for ten days. Following this period, a microchip will be implanted in the dog before it is released back into the community.

Severe Penalties for Repeat Offenders

If the same dog bites again, it will face a life sentence, meaning it will be housed permanently in the ABC center's shelter. Vijay Amrit Raj, the livestock officer of the municipal corporation, confirmed that this order has been issued by the principal secretary of urban development and is being enforced across all municipal bodies. In cases of repeat offenses, a three-member committee will investigate, consisting of an animal husbandry officer, a local body representative, and a member from the SPCA. The committee will determine if the dog was provoked before deciding on the punishment.

Rising Incidents of Dog Bites

The population of stray dogs in Prayagraj has exceeded 115,000, with over 4,000 reported dog bite incidents each month. These strays have also been linked to numerous road accidents. Recently, a stray dog chased a bank manager on a motorcycle, leading to a tragic accident where the manager was killed after falling under a municipal garbage truck. The growing number of stray dogs has become a significant concern for residents.

Vaccination Efforts for Stray Dogs

To manage the stray dog population, the municipal corporation has established an ABC center in the city. According to Vijay Amrit Raj, this facility, built at a cost of ₹1.8 crore, is located in Shams Nagar and focuses on sterilization and vaccination of dogs. Additionally, another ABC center is under construction with a budget of ₹4 crore, staffed by a team of health workers who will vaccinate over two dozen street dogs daily.

Lack of Public Engagement

Vijay Amrit Raj noted that the administration is providing facilities for pet owners through dog parks, encouraging responsible pet ownership. An awareness campaign is also underway for pet identification and licensing. The municipal corporation has set a fee of ₹1,000 for pet dog registration and ₹800 for license renewal. For the first time, pet cats are included in this initiative, with a licensing fee of ₹400. However, there seems to be a lack of enthusiasm among the public regarding these measures.