Thane Targets Rabies Eradication 10,000 Stray Dogs to Be Vaccinated by February 4

Thane Targets Rabies Eradication 10,000 Stray Dogs to Be Vaccinated by February 4

In a bid to make Thane a rabies-free city, the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) has launched the ‘Rabies Free Thane’ campaign in collaboration with Mission Rabies India. The weeklong initiative, set to run from January 29 to February 4, 2025, aims to vaccinate 10,000 stray dogs across the city.

This ambitious target follows the success of last year’s campaign, which vaccinated over 7,400 stray dogs, according to an official statement. The effort is part of the state government’s broader goal to eliminate rabies-related deaths by 2030. The campaign, supported by organizations such as Thane CPCA, Indian Society for Veterinary Animal Protection, and Citizens for Animal Protection, focuses on breaking the rabies transmission cycle. Vaccinating stray dogs is crucial, as rabies can be fatal if transmitted through dog bites. To achieve this year’s target, 25 specialized teams have been formed, each comprising a veterinary doctor and three staff members. These teams will prioritize areas identified as hotspots for dog bites, based on reports from local residents and animal activists. Dr. Kshama Shirodkar, TMC’s Veterinary Officer, confirmed that teams are well-equipped to conduct vaccinations across multiple wards.

Rabies remains a significant public health challenge in India, where approximately 36% of global rabies deaths occur annually. Vaccination campaigns such as this not only safeguard public health but also ensure the welfare of stray animals. The campaign is aligned with similar initiatives in other cities. For instance, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) conducted a massive rabies vaccination drive in Mumbai in 2024, launching efforts to combat the deadly virus on World Rabies Day (September 28, 2024). By focusing on both prevention and awareness, Thane’s initiative highlights the importance of collaboration between municipal bodies, animal welfare organizations, and the public in tackling rabies effectively.