Odisha govt gives additional funds to ULBs for feeding stray animals

Bhubaneswar: Amid the extended lockdown to contain the spread of COVID-19, the Odisha government today approved release of additional funds of Rs 80.18 lakh to urban local bodies in the State for feeding stray dogs and animals up to May 3, 2020. The additional funds will be provided from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund (CMRF) to five municipal corporations, 48 municipalities and 61 NACs of the State for 19 days.

While Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation has been allocated Rs 3.80 lakh for 19 days, four other municipal corporations have received Rs 7.60 lakh.

The 48 municipalities in the State have been provided Rs 45.60 lakh and 61 NACs were allocated Rs 23.18 lakh.

The ULBs have been asked to utilise the available manpower, mobility and machinery. They can also take the help of the service of NGOs and animal welfare organisations in their areas to feed the stray animals.

Worth mentioning, the Centre has extended nationwide lockdown till May 3 to prevent the spread of COVID-19.