Mumbai: A decade-long study of Mumbai’s stray dog population has revealed a significant decline in overall numbers, reflecting the impact of sterilization and animal birth control (ABC) programs. However, certain wards have recorded an increase, raising new challenges for urban animal management.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), in collaboration with Humane Society International/India (HSI/India), conducted a comprehensive stray dog survey in 2024 to assess population trends and the effectiveness of ABC initiatives. The survey found that Mumbai’s stray dog population has reduced to 90,757, down from 95,172 in 2014. Dog density on the streets has decreased by 21.8%, while slum areas recorded a 27.4% reduction.
Covering approximately 930 km of the city, the survey found an average of 8.01 dogs per km, while slums had a much higher concentration of 224 dogs per square km. Notably, while most wards showed a decline, four wards—E, N, RS, and T—reported a 19.9% rise in dog density, while Ward D remained unchanged. Experts suggest that factors such as dog migration, inter-ward movement, and human interactions like feeding may be influencing these localized increases.
Sterilization Rates and Seasonal Trends
The study also revealed that 62.9% of the stray dog population is sterilized, with female sterilization slightly lower at 61.7%. Interestingly, despite fewer lactating females (7.1%), the number of pups per surveyed area has increased to 4.3%.
In addition, dog-related complaints and bite incidents, historically declining since 1997—saw a temporary rise post-pandemic in 2022. Complaints tend to peak during the monsoon season (July-August), when dogs become more territorial, while bite incidents increase during late winter and spring, coinciding with the whelping season.
These findings highlight the success of ongoing ABC programs while emphasizing the need for targeted interventions in specific wards. With new insights into canine behavior and population trends, authorities aim to refine their strategies for managing Mumbai’s free-roaming dog population effectively.
