Mumbai’s stray dogs will soon get a digital identity as the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has introduced QR-coded reflective collars for vaccinated and sterilised dogs across the city. The move aims to improve identification, maintain digital records and support Mumbai’s goal of becoming a rabies-free city by 2030.
The BMC has partnered with the Ridlan AI Foundation to launch the QR-coded collar initiative. The agreement was signed at the civic headquarters on August 20 in the presence of officials from the Veterinary Health Department and representatives of the foundation.
Currently, vaccinated stray dogs are identified through temporary methods such as coloured ink markings. However, these markings often fade over time, making it difficult for civic teams to confirm whether a dog has received vaccination or sterilisation treatment. The new QR-coded collars will provide a more permanent solution by storing important information about each dog. Authorities and authorised teams will be able to access details related to vaccination, sterilisation and health records through the QR tags.
The digital tracking system is expected to help the civic body avoid repeated procedures, identify areas where vaccination coverage needs improvement and strengthen monitoring of stray dog management activities.
The initiative will also improve coordination between the BMC, animal welfare organisations and veterinary teams working towards better care and management of Mumbai’s stray dog population.
As part of its rabies prevention programme, the BMC already conducts regular Animal Birth Control (ABC) operations and anti-rabies vaccination drives across the city. The QR collar system will add a technology-based approach to these existing efforts.
The civic body aims to use the collected data as a long-term resource for rabies elimination. With accurate records of vaccinated and sterilised dogs, authorities can plan better interventions and work towards reducing rabies cases in Mumbai.
Through this initiative, the BMC hopes to create a safer environment for both citizens and stray animals while moving closer to its vision of a rabies-free Mumbai by 2030.
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