South Delhi Municipal Corporation is all set to create a pet park which will have facilities like grooming, sale of pet food and accessories, veterinary centres and fun activity courses like swimming, play area etc. There will also be a provision for a day care centre where people can leave their pets when out for work.

“The concept of a dog park has already been implemented in Greater Hyderabad and Bengaluru, and we will create at least one of them in South Delhi as soon as possible”, said Alok Kumar, Horticulture Director, SDMC.

SDMC additional commissioner Randhir Sahay said, “It is usual to see people having arguments with others when they unleash their dogs while walking on the roads or running around in the parks. This happens because not everyone feels safe or comfortable in the presence of dogs in public areas,” while explaining the need for these facilities.

Sahay also said, “At pet parks we will offer membership at reasonable prices and provide ample activities for pets. There will also be cafeterias, vet services etc. to make the visit even more worthwhile.”

SDMC commissioner Gyanesh Bharti added, “Within the park there will be trees to provide ample shade and keep the park cool even in summer. Gazebos have also been proposed in the open areas for both pets and visitors. The surface material planned in the dog parks include grass, decomposed granite, wood chips/mulch, pea gravel etc. which will not make pets uncomfortable to walk on”.

The concept of this pet park is being planned and prepared to be implemented at an undeveloped site near Defence Colony Market. The idea has been uploaded on the SDMC website and the public’s views and suggestions have been invited. “We are approaching various organisations to fund the project as a CSR activity. We will also involve animal lovers in implementing the project” said an SDMC official.

The proposed location for the pet park has enough parking space to avoid congestion on the roads as well multiple entries to avoid crowding at one point. This place is located at a good distance from the residential area and can be easily accessed by a large number of pet owners, the official said.

A waste bag dispenser will also be installed in the park to provide bags to collect the pet poop. Covered bins will be put up for waste disposal, the official said.

Source: Times of India