Shillong: The East Khasi Hills district administration launched its Action Plan for the Elimination of Dog-Mediated Rabies on September 1. Laban serves as the pilot location for the program. It mandates stray dog enumeration, vaccination, and sterilization, alongside stricter pet ownership rules. Officials aim to wipe out dog-mediated rabies by 2030.
Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal confirmed the district battles frequent dog bites, many of which go unreported. Additional Deputy Commissioner FB Basan said success hinges on cooperation between the government and traditional institutions. Still, the plan remains limited to Laban for now. The city wants results.
Residents outside the pilot zone feel left in the dark. Laitumkhrah resident Bada Nongrum said, “If the government is starting with Laban, people in other localities should also know when their areas will be covered.” The current strategy focuses on regulating community feeding and tracking owned animals through Rangbah Shnong registration.
Concerns vary by neighborhood. In Mawlai, residents fear dog packs near food waste at night. In Nongthymmai and Dhanketi, citizens demand that pet owners face the same scrutiny as stray feeders. Some locals in Malki worry about losing their established care routines for community dogs. They want consultation before feeding restrictions take effect.
The administration intends to move from Laban to the rest of Shillong and then rural areas. Animal welfare groups continue to push for monitoring and medical care. The city waits for the next move.
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