Shillong: The Meghalaya High Court has directed the state government and the Shillong Municipal Board to establish a shelter for street dogs as a priority.
The directive was issued by a division bench comprising Chief Justice I.P. Mukerji and Justice W. Diengdoh while hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) concerning the relocation of the Shillong zoo and the management of street dogs in the city.
The Court expressed concern over the growing population of street dogs and the associated risks, including a rise in dog bite incidents and rabies-related deaths. While the Shillong Municipal Board reported ongoing vaccination and sterilization drives, the Court noted the absence of a dedicated shelter for the animals. Currently, stray dogs are vaccinated, sterilized, and returned to the streets, which the Court deemed insufficient to address the menace effectively.
On the issue of the zoo’s relocation, the state government informed the Court that the Shillong zoo was shifted in June 2024 to the newly established Meghalaya State Zoo, located approximately 35 kilometers from Shillong. The new facility features a veterinary hospital with a qualified veterinarian. While most animals have been relocated, the transfer of birds remains pending due to delays in constructing a suitable cage-type enclosure. A pregnant deer has also been retained temporarily at the old site.
The Court expressed satisfaction with the zoo relocation efforts, recognizing the new facility’s animal-friendly environment. However, it underscored the need for swift action to address the street dog issue through the creation of proper infrastructure, emphasizing public safety and animal welfare.
The case highlights the dual challenges of urban animal management and wildlife conservation in Meghalaya, with the High Court pushing for decisive measures to balance both priorities.
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