Latest news with #MaduraiCityCorporation
New Indian Express
3 days ago
- General
- New Indian Express
Corporation under-reporting stray dog population in Madurai, allege activists
MADURAI: Even as the Madurai City Corporation estimates the stray dog population to be between 27,162 and 38,348, local activists have raised serious concerns, alleging that the numbers are being downplayed and that the actual population could be well above 50,000 . The stray dog menace has remained a recurring issue at every corporation grievance and council meeting, with the city reporting 1,200–1,500 dog bite cases on average every month. While the stray dog census results were published in May, the figures have come under scrutiny. K Jeyachandran, councillor of Ward 62 and an animal activist, said, 'In 2020, the stray dog census showed 53,826 dogs, and in 2012, it was 47,573. With only about 3,000 to 4,000 Animal Birth Control (ABC) surgeries conducted annually, it's unrealistic to assume the population has dropped below 38,000. The young dog and puppy population is notably high. The numbers do not add up.' He urged the corporation to promote adoption of strays as a humane method to control the population. M Praveen, another city-based activist, pointed out that the corporation has only one dog-catching vehicle, causing significant delays in ABC operations. 'We need more vehicles and increased ABC coverage to effectively manage the issue,' he said. City corporation officials defended the latest census, stating that previous counts were conducted randomly, making them less reliable. 'The current survey was conducted scientifically with teams visiting each ward three times for accuracy,' said a senior official. The corporation also confirmed plans to purchase additional vehicles and implement new measures based on state directives to address the stray dog problem.
Time of India
02-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Madurai corpn floats proposal for private operation of new LPG crematoriums
1 2 3 Madurai: With three new LPG crematoriums in Narayanapuram, Annaiyur, and Melamadai nearing completion, the Madurai City Corporation has invited proposals from private operators to manage and maintain the facilities on a not-for-profit basis. Built at a cost of ₹2 crore each, the crematoriums are expected to be operational within two months. The selected agency, designated as the "Operator," will be responsible for running the facilities following safety norms, environmental regulations, and public expectations. A senior corporation official said the operator's duties include managing LPG cremation units, maintaining hygiene, and providing essential amenities such as toilets, bath areas, and prayer halls. The agency will also facilitate on-site death registration and ensure uninterrupted operations during emergencies by deploying additional staff if needed. Operators must install CCTV surveillance as directed by the corporation to enhance safety and accountability. "Cleanliness and dignity must not be compromised in such sensitive spaces," said civic activist VP Manikandan. The maximum service fee will be capped at ₹3,500 per cremation, subject to revision by the corporation. Staff are expected to wear uniforms and treat bereaved families with empathy and respect. Each crematorium is projected to handle about 50 cremations a month, with potential for increased usage as services improve. Officials believe the modern, LPG-based facilities will offer a cleaner, more sustainable alternative to traditional wood-fired pyres and help reduce pressure on existing cremation sites. MSID:: 121574491 413 |
