Pune Launches Citywide Rabies Vaccination Drive on Sept 28
On World Rabies Day, Pune Municipal Corporation initiates a comprehensive vaccination campaign targeting all dogs to enhance public awareness and response.
1,136 dogs vaccinated on the first day of the campaign.
43 rabies deaths reported in the last three years.
Citizens encouraged to report stray dog clusters and ensure pet vaccinations.
Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) marked World Rabies Day on September 28 by launching an extensive vaccination and awareness initiative aimed at combating rabies in the city. The campaign, themed ‘Stronger Together’ for 2026, seeks to vaccinate all dogs, including strays, while educating the public on prevention and care following dog bites.
On the inaugural day of the campaign, PMC successfully vaccinated 1,136 dogs. Dr. Sarika Funde, the civic chief veterinary officer, stated that veterinary professionals and vaccine providers have been deployed across various wards to administer anti-rabies shots. Additionally, two digital awareness vehicles are circulating throughout the city to disseminate crucial information regarding rabies and the appropriate actions to take after a dog bite.
The rabies vaccination campaign is being conducted under the supervision of PMC officials and the Universal Animal Welfare Society, with technical support from World Veterinary Services. To ensure rapid response capabilities, five relief vehicles have been allocated, with each of the 15 regional offices receiving one vehicle equipped with rabies vaccination kits. Dr. Funde emphasized the campaign's objective of minimizing conflicts between dogs and humans while ensuring timely vaccinations and care.
According to PMC records, there have been 43 reported rabies deaths at Dr. Naidu Infectious Diseases Hospital over the past three years, with only one case involving a resident within PMC limits. In 2023 alone, 21 deaths were recorded, followed by 12 in 2024 and 10 in 2025. To enhance welfare measures and reduce conflicts, a committee has been established to determine feeding points for stray dogs, with officials noting a current demand for 116 such points in the PMC area, although this figure has been challenged by animal welfare advocates.
As vaccination efforts for field staff are already in progress, PMC aims to expand its coverage in the upcoming weeks. Officials reiterated that ongoing vaccination, paired with public awareness, is the most effective strategy to eliminate rabies transmission from dogs to humans. Citizens are urged to report clusters of stray dogs, ensure their pets are vaccinated, and seek immediate medical attention in the event of any bites or scratches, while also promoting humane treatment of animals.
