This is the first time round the clock veterinary care services have been started in Delhi
With elections approaching and facilities for cows – or the lack thereof – making headlines, Delhi government has started a 24/7 animal healthcare service.
Minister of Development Gopal Rai, on Wednesday, inaugurated the round-the-clock facility at the Government Veterinary Hospital at Zorawar Singh Marg, Tis Hajari. The Animal Husbandry Department has also launched a helpline number 011-23967555 for animal health care assistance to people in Delhi. The plan, Rai said, is to make veterinary hospitals in all districts of Delhi.Â
This is the first time round the clock veterinary care services have been started in Delhi. The contiguous villages and Lal Dora areas within Delhi’s urban sprawl means that there are not just pets in apartments that need veterinary services but also animals that are people’s livelihood. Sickness of such animals over long periods can financially damage families. On the other these are often people who cannot afford to spend too much money on the healthcare of these animals.
Rai said that for the first time in Delhi, a policy has been created for the health and welfare of animals. Under the policy animal hospitals will be constructed in all 272 municipal wards of the city
The Delhi government’s move comes at a time when the BJP government in neighbouring Uttar Pradesh is facing heat over not being able to solve the problem of stray cattle. Upset at the menace of stray cattle and non functioning gawshalas, people have started locking cattle up in schools and other government buildings across the state.
Rai said that for the first time in Delhi, a policy has been created for the health and welfare of animals. Under the policy animal hospitals will be constructed in all 272 municipal wards of the city. However, he conceded that shortage of veterinary doctors is something that could derail the success of the project given the number of vacancies.
“There is a shortage of doctors in the animal husbandry department. That situation will soon be addressed and all vacant posts filled. The Delhi government will also increase the Budget of the department,” Rai said.
