August 19,2025 — In a significant step towards managing the growing population of stray dogs, the municipal authorities in Shimla have announced a new initiative under which a digital record of each stray dog will be maintained. The plan, revealed by the city’s mayor, includes profiling the behaviour of dogs and placing aggressive animals in a specially designated facility known as the “Dog Hut” at Tutikandi.
According to the mayor, the scheme seeks to bring order to the city’s efforts in dealing with stray animals, which have often posed challenges to residents. Each stray dog will be assigned a unique QR code and fitted with a GPS collar to enable continuous monitoring of its movement and activities. The data collected will assist the municipal corporation in identifying behavioural patterns and taking timely action in cases of aggression.
Officials stated that the Dog Hut at Tutikandi will function as a secure holding area for aggressive or high-risk dogs. These animals will be lodged there until further evaluation is carried out. The measure aims not only to safeguard residents but also to ensure that stray animals are handled with care and in accordance with animal welfare guidelines.
Municipal staff and veterinary teams will be tasked with scanning the QR codes, updating the records, and tracking the collars. This digital registry will allow real-time updates on vaccination status, medical treatment, and behavioural assessments. Authorities believe this system will help curb incidents of dog bites, which have been a recurring issue in several parts of Shimla.
The mayor added that the project reflects the corporation’s commitment to adopting modern technology for civic management. “This initiative is designed to protect both citizens and animals. Through proper tracking and digital monitoring, we will ensure stray dogs are not only accounted for but also cared for responsibly,” he said.
Residents have expressed cautious optimism about the plan. While some citizens welcome the move, citing frequent encounters with stray dogs in markets and residential colonies, animal welfare groups have sought assurances that the collars and tracking methods will not cause harm. Officials have clarified that the collars are lightweight and designed to ensure the comfort of the animals.
The introduction of a digital record system and GPS-based monitoring marks the first such attempt in the region. If successful, it could serve as a model for other municipalities struggling with similar issues. With implementation set to begin shortly, the authorities are hopeful that Shimla will see improved management of its stray dog population in the coming months.
