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Pet dogs banned from Bengaluru's Cubbon Park, animal lovers object
Bengaluru dog lovers and pet owners objected sharply to a proposal by authorities to ban the entry of pet dogs into Cubbon Park, one of the largest green spaces in Bengaluru, from July 1.
A heated debate has broken out after city authorities proposed a ban on dogs entering Bengaluru's Cubbon Park starting July 1. Pet owners and dog lovers from the city conveyed their strong objection to the move by the horticulture department and called it a 'harsh decision', news agency ANI reported.
Animal lovers took to social media to oppose the decision and shared a petition to force city authorities to allow pet dogs into the landmark 'lung' area of the city. The petition already has over 18,500 signatures.
The horticulture department reportedly took the step to preserve the natural cover in the park, which some joggers and frequent visitors have complained is being compromised because of litter and pet waste.
The department - which is yet to take a final decision - said the controversial proposal was requested by environment lovers who frequent the park and noticed that at least 30 per cent dog owners do not follow guidelines prescribed to keep the park clean, despite banners being placed around the premises.
These guidelines convey that pet dogs should be on a leash, their owners should collect their poop, and that they are prohibited on the lawn area.
HT Balakrishna, deputy director of the Horticulture department (Cubbon Park), told ANI, "Since last year, many members requested to ban entry of pet dogs in Cubbon Park. On June 14, it was decided to create awareness about the guidelines of the Animal Welfare Board of India and the Department of Animal Husbandry for pet dogs' owners."
"We placed banners, displaying the guidelines. But around 30% of owners won't follow guidelines. So, people made the request. Now, government contemplating banning pet dogs' entry from July 1, but final decision is yet to be taken," Balakrishna added.
(With inputs from ANI)
