Chennai Launches INR 5.2 Crore Smart System to Track Stray and Pet Dogs

In a major move to streamline the management of stray and pet dog populations, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has launched a INR 5.20 crore initiative that includes microchipping animals and rolling out a digital tracking system. The civic body has appointed a vendor to develop a comprehensive software platform and mobile application, aimed at identifying and monitoring community dogs across the city.

The multi-pronged system will also collect and manage data related to pet dogs, complementing the existing pet registration services available on the GCC’s online portal. The application will be equipped with a State-level dashboard, tools for local authorities, mobile-based tracking for dog catchers, a public-facing pet licensing feature, and dedicated access for veterinarians.

At the heart of the system are injectable RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) microchips designed to provide each dog with a unique identity. These ISO-standard chips measure roughly 12 mm by 2.1 mm and are made from biocompatible glass. They will be implanted using pre-sterilised syringes provided in the kit. For every 2,500 chips, the vendor will supply one RFID reader at no extra cost.

GCC officials noted that the system will offer real-time updates on a dog’s health status, sterilisation history, and records related to cruelty cases. It will also allow for dynamic data filtering and the generation of exportable reports.

The software must be compatible with existing pet licensing records and will be hosted on a cloud-based platform to ensure accessibility and scalability. A structured training module for all stakeholders has been planned as part of the rollout.

The vendor has been given a 90-day deadline to deploy the system in full, after which they will be responsible for maintaining and upgrading the platform over the next five years.