Gurgaon civic body initiates steps for safe disposal of animal carcasses

The Municipal Corporation of Gurugram has opened tenders to hire a concessionaire for proper disposal of animal carcasses

Adhering to the forest department’s order, the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) has opened tenders to hire a concessionaire for proper disposal of animal carcasses.

Last year, the forest department had written to the MCG about harm caused by sanitation workers disposing infected animal carcasses in the open. (HT File Photo)

Last year, the forest department had written to the MCG stating that disposing infected animal carcasses in open forest areas by sanitation workers is causing an adverse impact on birds and animals in the Aravallis.

As per the MCG’s tender document, the concessionaire, once finalised, will be responsible for collection of carcasses in areas under the civic body’s jurisdiction. The concessionaire will also have to dispose them off at MCG’s animal incinerators and inform the body if it is dumping or burying them in areas not under the MCG.

According to forest department officials, the Aravallis are home to wild animals such as hyena, Bengal fox, leopard and various species of vultures. Some of these animals are endangered.

These birds and animals often feed on the carcasses, some of which are of cattle that were administered painkillers such as diclofenac by their owners. The drug is banned by the government due to its high toxicity and its consumption can be fatal, especially to vultures.

“The forest department and MCG have held several meetings this year to resolve issues such as improper dumping of animal carcasses and other problems through a coordinated effort among the departments. Forest officials will keep a vigil and inform the MCG about improper dumping of carcasses. The MCG will then ensure that sanitation workers are kept in check through penalisation or suspension,” said SS Rohilla, MCG spokesperson.