After Deer Killed by Stray Dogs, Chittoor Launches Drive to Keep Forest Litter-Free
Forest officials in Chittoor have launched a special drive to make the forest road and city park litter-free, aiming to create a safer environment for wildlife. The initiative gained significance following the recent death of a mother deer and its fawn in an attack by stray dogs.
The drive focuses on preventing stray dogs from moving freely along the forest road and inside the park. Officials have identified the dumping of leftovers by roadside eateries as a key factor luring stray dogs to the area. As part of the effort, awareness camps will be conducted for roadside eatery operators and walkers’ associations.
District Forest Officer (DFO) G. Subburaj told The Hindu on Saturday that the improving greenery in the surrounding hillocks had led to a remarkable increase in the deer population. “It has come to our notice that the dumping of leftovers by roadside eateries is luring stray dogs along the forest road. With greenery improving in the surrounding hillocks, the deer population has increased remarkably, and this is a welcome sign to further boost recreational activities in the park,” he said.
Mr. Subburaj added that a special team was also working on measures to address the stray dog menace in areas close to the forest.
Officials said that keeping the forest road and city park free of food waste would help check the movement of stray dogs and protect wildlife. The drive involves clearing existing litter and ensuring that eateries do not leave food waste behind.
Walkers in the area have welcomed the initiative. They noted that the forest area is home to small wildlife, including hares, lizards, and several bird species. Keeping the area clean will benefit these creatures and enhance the experience for visitors.
The stray dog issue is a growing concern in many forest fringes across India, where food waste from human settlements attracts dogs that then prey on smaller wildlife. The Chittoor drive is part of a broader effort to promote coexistence between humans and wildlife.
The awareness camps will educate eatery operators about the importance of proper waste disposal. They will also encourage walkers’ associations to report any dumping or stray dog sightings. Officials hope that community participation will make the drive sustainable.
The forest road and city park are popular recreational spots. With the deer population thriving due to improved greenery, the area has the potential to become a model for wildlife-friendly tourism. However, the presence of stray dogs poses a threat to this balance.
The DFO emphasised that the drive is not just about cleanliness but about protecting the ecosystem. “We need to ensure that human activities do not harm wildlife. Simple steps like not leaving food waste behind can make a big difference,” he said.
The special team is working on measures to address the stray dog menace. Details of these measures are still being worked out.
Local residents and walkers have praised the initiative. They say it is a step in the right direction to safeguard the region’s biodiversity. The forest area is part of the Eastern Ghats, which is known for its rich flora and fauna.
For now, the focus is on immediate action: cleaning up the forest road and park, and preventing further food waste accumulation. Officials urge visitors and eateries to cooperate in keeping the area litter-free.
The death of the deer and its fawn has served as a wake-up call. It highlights the unintended consequences of human negligence on wildlife. The Chittoor drive aims to prevent such incidents in the future.
By working together, forest officials, local businesses, and the community can ensure that the forest remains a safe haven for wildlife and a pleasant place for people to enjoy nature.
