Canine Distemper Crisis Deepens in Bengaluru Amid Crematorium Shutdown

Bengaluru: Bengaluru is facing mounting criticism as the BBMP struggles to manage a severe outbreak of canine distemper (CD) among stray dogs, made worse by the ongoing closure of Sumanahalli’s only animal electric crematorium. This combination of challenges has left countless strays at risk, with many suffering without treatment and denied a respectful end.

Recently, both animal welfare volunteers and veterinary professionals have observed a significant rise in Canine Distemper cases, especially among street dogs. The viral infection, which attacks the respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems of dogs, spreads quickly among those not vaccinated and is often fatal. Fortunately, the virus does not infect humans.

With no specialized BBMP facility available for treating affected animals, local NGOs and rescue organizations have been forced to shoulder the burden, despite limited resources and space. They describe the current situation as one of the most severe outbreaks in recent memory. Kruthika, an animal activist, told TOI, "We're seeing multiple new cases every day. There's no proper infrastructure to isolate or care for these infected dogs. Many are dying on the streets without any humane support."

The crisis has been compounded by the closure of the Sumanahalli crematorium, which is undergoing emergency repairs. BBMP chief commissioner Maheshwar Rao acknowledged the seriousness of the situation in a statement to TOI, promising: "The matter will be addressed immediately. We'll arrange an alternative." Keerthan from Charlie's Care NGO added, "After the outbreak, we are doing our best to treat sick dogs, but many are dying. Without the crematorium, we're forced to store bodies in freezers. It's heartbreaking."

Suralkar Vikas Kishore, special commissioner for animal husbandry at BBMP, confirmed that efforts are underway to address the outbreak. "We've launched vaccination drives to prevent further spread. We've approved an action plan to open animal clinics in every ward soon. As for the crematorium, it has a serious technical fault. We are calling for an emergency tender to fix it soon."

With the public crematorium out of commission, some private providers have started offering animal cremation services, but often at steep prices. Nandish, a pet owner, said: "Many dogs died in our neighbourhood, and we had to use private crematoriums that charged exorbitant fees. BBMP has failed to provide even this basic dignity to dead animals. It's a clear administrative failure."

Dr Rekha Rao, a local veterinarian, emphasized the need for immediate government intervention: "We need the govt to step in with temporary treatment centres, mobile clinics, and guidelines for handling deceased animals."

As the crisis continues, animal advocates urge swift action to protect Bengaluru’s stray population and restore humane practices for both the living and the deceased.