Activists Slam New Rs 2 Crore Medi Agrahara Stray Dog Shelter

A newly constructed Rs 2 crore stray dog shelter built by the Bengaluru North City Corporation (BNCC) in Medi Agrahara, Bengaluru, has drawn severe criticism from local animal activists and experts over its design and location. The facility, designed to house approximately 500 dogs, was built in response to a Supreme Court directive to relocate stray dogs from sensitive public areas. However, critics warn the shelter's setup will cause immense stress and sickness to the animals while creating a noise nuisance for nearby residents.

The shelter is located adjacent to an existing animal birth control (ABC) centre, which itself sits next to a residential layout. Activists argue this proximity will cause severe discomfort to both the dogs brought for medical procedures and those housed in the shelter, while residents will face constant noise from barking dogs.

Shrinivas B, an entrepreneur biologist, warned that the high-stress environment would cause the dogs to fall sick quickly. He noted that trapping 500 dogs in cages with nowhere to hide would lead to barking levels exceeding 100 decibels.

Dr. Jagadish Mittur, a scientist and biotechnologist, also expressed concern, stating that a single shared cage with limited drains acts as a mass amplifier for disease, noise, and environmental harm rather than providing proper animal care.

Further criticisms of the facility include a lack of adequate shade. Activists noted the shelter has more open areas than covered spaces, leaving dogs exposed during the day. They also pointed out that the ceiling fans installed are of poor quality, with one already unsteady before the official inauguration.

Sujaya Jagadish, a member of the SPCA, highlighted the financial and management risks, stating that government-funded shelters often face sudden funding cuts. She emphasized that 360-degree input from all stakeholders is necessary before any dog is relocated to such facilities.

In response, Dr. HK Gangadharaiah, Chief Veterinary Officer of the BNCC Animal Husbandry Department, defended the construction. He stated that the shelter was built in accordance with the standard operating procedure (SOP) of the Animal Welfare Board of India, which requires a 50 percent open and 50 percent covered layout. He added that activists were focusing on criticism rather than offering constructive suggestions.