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 stray dog attacks. Under these rules, dogs that bite humans will face serious consequences, including life imprisonment for repeat offenders. The city is also implementing vaccination and sterilization programs to manage the stray population effectively. Despite these initiatives, public engagement remains low, raising concerns about community involvement in pet ownership and safety measures. Discover the details of this new policy and its implications for residents and stray animals alike.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 28, 2026, 17:26 IST

Stray Dog Management in Prayagraj

In response to the increasing incidents of aggressive stray dogs attacking humans in Prayagraj, local authorities have implemented a significant new policy. The government has mandated that any dog that bites a person for the first time will be kept 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 at the ABC center's shelter.

According to Vijay Amrit Raj, the livestock officer of the municipal corporation, this directive 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, comprising a livestock officer, a local body representative, and an SPCA member. The committee will also determine if the dog was provoked before the attack. Only with sufficient evidence will a life sentence be imposed on the dog.

Rising Incidents of Dog Bites

The population of stray dogs in Prayagraj has exceeded 115,000, with over 4,000 dog bite incidents reported each month. The presence of these strays has led to numerous road accidents. Recently, a stray dog chased a bank manager riding a motorcycle, resulting in the manager's tragic death after he fell under a municipal garbage truck. The growing number of stray dogs poses a significant concern for residents.

Vaccination Initiatives for Stray Dogs

To manage the stray dog population, the municipal corporation has established an Animal Birth Control center in the city. Vijay Amrit Raj stated that 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 nearing completion, with an investment of ₹4 crore. A team of over a dozen health workers will be stationed there to vaccinate more than two dozen street dogs daily.

Lack of Public Engagement

Vijay Amrit Raj noted that the administration is providing facilities for pet lovers to walk their pets through dog parks. Furthermore, campaigns are underway for pet identification and licensing.

The corporation has set a fee of ₹1,000 for pet dog registration and ₹800 for license renewal. For the first time, pet cats are also included in this initiative, with a licensing fee of ₹400. Despite these efforts, there seems to be a lack of enthusiasm among the public.