Labour minister Moloy Ghatak inaugurated the first state-owned stray dog shelter in the Bagbandi area of Kalipahari, on the outskirts of Asansol in West Burdwan district. The facility, named Sheru O Bondhu, has been welcomed by animal lovers across the district.
The shelter has been established by the Asansol Municipal Corporation (AMC) in line with Supreme Court instructions to control the growing population of stray dogs and related civic issues.
The inauguration was attended by Asansol Mayor Bidhan Upadhyay, Asansol Durgapur Development Authority (ADDA) Chairman Kabi Dutta, West Burdwan District Magistrate S Ponnambalam, and AMC Chairman Amarnath Chatterjee, among others.
Mayor Bidhan Upadhyay said: “To control the increasing population of stray dogs in the district, the civic authority has taken a new initiative. A shelter centre has been constructed where stray dogs will be kept, treated, and monitored.”
AMC Commissioner Ekom J Singh added: “The shelter has been developed so that stray dogs roaming the streets can be rescued and housed safely. Arrangements have been made for food, medical treatment, vaccination, and sterilisation by veterinary doctors and staff of the state animal resources development department. In addition, sponsors and NGOs will provide support.”
Officials confirmed that the facility also includes a system for the respectful cremation of deceased animals, ensuring hygienic disposal of mortal remains.
Speaking at the event, Minister Ghatak said the state administration is committed to controlling the stray dog population in a humane and scientific manner. He emphasised that animal welfare and public safety are equally important, and initiatives such as sterilisation and shelter management will help reduce urban problems caused by stray dogs.
AMC sources noted that stray dogs will be captured humanely by trained catchers, then brought to the shelter for sterilisation, vaccination, and medical care. Dead animals will be cremated through proper facilities. The initiative aims to reduce the street dog population and improve urban hygiene.