State-of-the-art Animal Birth Centre at Chatterhama nears completion

Srinagar, July 18: In a concerted effort to enhance animal welfare and urban health infrastructure, Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) Commissioner Fazlul Haseeb Friday undertook a detailed inspection of Animal Birth Control (ABC) facilities at Tengpora, Shuhama and the upcoming centre at Chatterhama.A statement issued here said that accompanied by senior officials including the Joint Commissioners (Administration and Works), the Health Officer, and Executive Engineers, the Commissioner assessed operations and construction progress under the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) guidelines for scientific and humane stray dog population control. The Tengpora facility, fully operational, was lauded for its structured workflow and adherence to animal welfare protocols. Equipped with surgical theatres, post-operative recovery units and kennels, it plays a key role in sterilisation and vaccination drives. Haseeb engaged with veterinary staff to ensure best practices in hygiene and care were being upheld. At Shuhama, the Commissioner reviewed the collaborative centre jointly managed by SMC and SKUAST-Kashmir’s Faculty of Veterinary Sciences. Praising the institutional partnership, he stressed the importance of continued coordination to deliver quality veterinary services and effectively implement ABC protocols.The visit concluded at the under-construction Chatterhama ABC Centre, where 80 per cent of the work has been completed. Designed to be a state-of-the-art facility, it will feature multiple surgical tables, holding areas, and advanced sanitation and waste management systems. Haseeb directed engineers and the animal husbandry team to expedite remaining works while maintaining high construction standards. The Commissioner reiterated the ABC programme’s dual role in promoting animal welfare and safeguarding public health. He called for increased public awareness and community involvement, urging citizens to report stray dog hotspots and support field teams during capture-and-release operations. These visits form part of SMC’s broader vision to modernise civic infrastructure, mitigate zoonotic risks and ensure Srinagar remains a safe, humane, and well-managed urban environment.