Four netted in animal welfare raids

In a coordinated operation, the police, the Wildlife Department, the Assistant Commissioner City, and the Civil Defence Department on Saturday carried out inspections at the city's pet and bird market, uncovering serious breaches of animal welfare regulations, including the confinement of animals and birds in severely overcrowded cages, deprivation of food and water, and failure to treat animals suffering from acute illness.

During the operation, officials seized four cats, four dogs, 10 pigeons, and two rabbits, and arrested four shopkeepers. Five premises were sealed for maintaining animals in conditions deemed cruel and in contravention of statutory requirements. The enforcement drive, conducted along Alam Khan Road, lasted four hours and was supported by a police contingent.

The AC (City) and the Deputy Director of the Wildlife Department issued stern warnings to traders for flagrantly disregarding welfare standards. Inspectors reported numerous cages containing twice the lawful number of animals or birds, with some left without food or water in the full glare of the sun.

All vendors in the market were directed to ensure that animals and birds are never kept in direct sunlight, that cages are of adequate size, food and water are available at all times, and enclosures are kept scrupulously clean.

They were also instructed to provide proper ventilation with fans, to segregate sick animals or birds, and to obtain prompt veterinary treatment.