New Delhi is set to take a major step toward humane and systematic management of stray dogs with the development of a mega dog shelter in Moti Bagh, capable of housing more than 500 dogs at a time. The initiative, undertaken by the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC), aims to strengthen animal welfare infrastructure while addressing growing public concerns over stray dog safety and management in the capital.
The shelter will come up at the old veterinary hospital complex in Moti Bagh, where a small facility with a capacity of around 30 aggressive dogs already exists. NDMC has now decided to upgrade this site into a full-scale, modern shelter with enhanced medical, feeding, and housing facilities.
A Modern Shelter with Comprehensive Facilities
Officials said the project will involve extensive renovation of the hospital’s rear building, interior repairs, and beautification of the courtyard. The estimated cost of the project is around ₹50 lakh, and the work is expected to be completed within three months. A specialised agency will soon be appointed through the tender process to execute the project.
As per the plan, the shelter will be designed in line with Supreme Court guidelines on animal welfare and urban dog management. It will include:
◆Open, fenced safe zones for non-aggressive stray dogs
◆Separate kennels for around 300 aggressive or rabid dogs
◆Dedicated feeding areas
◆An in-house operation theatre and medical care unit
◆Secure enclosures to prevent escape and ensure safety
The shelter will mainly accommodate dogs brought from educational institutions, office complexes, and sensitive public areas, ensuring safer coexistence between humans and animals.
Feeding Points and Complaint Mechanism Strengthened
Alongside the shelter project, NDMC has also identified 100 feeding points across 14 administrative circles. These locations include markets, parks, religious places, and residential colonies. The feeding points were finalised after consultations with RWAs, market associations, and residents to reduce conflict and maintain hygiene.
NDMC has further proposed appointing nodal officers in hospitals, offices, and institutions to handle stray dog-related complaints, creating a clear accountability system for faster grievance redressal.
MCD Plans Still Await Approval
Meanwhile, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi’s (MCD) ambitious plan to build a 1,500-capacity aggressive dog shelter in Dwarka Sector-23 remains stalled. The proposed Rs 3.8 crore project is yet to receive the Commissioner’s approval before being placed before the House.
In addition, MCD has earmarked Rs 20 crore for a citywide microchipping and sterilisation programme. Under the proposal, each dog will be implanted with a rice-sized microchip containing details such as age, colour, vaccination status, area, and the responsible NGO. The data will be uploaded to a digital portal for monitoring and tracking — though the project is still awaiting final clearance.
A Step Toward Safer, Humane Cities
Urban planners and animal welfare activists say the Moti Bagh mega shelter reflects Delhi’s evolving approach to stray dog management — balancing public safety, humane treatment, and long-term population control. Once operational, the facility could become a model for other Indian cities grappling with similar challenges.
