Noida: Off-leash pet dogs roam freely in Meghdootam park, say morning walkers

NOIDA: Morning walkers at Meghdootam Park, Sector 50, on Sunday complained about several pet owners who bring their dogs to the park and let them loose to play in the area.
Residents are raising their concerns as some of these dogs are big dogs like German Shepherds and Labradors that run around scaring those out for their morning walks. They demand action from Noida Authority, as its pet policy does not allow pets without a leash in public spaces.
"There are about 10-12 people who come to Meghdootam Park every day with their pet dogs and leave them free in the park. There are big dogs among them like German Shepherds, Alsatians and Labradors etc. For the past few months, these people come to the park every day and untie their leashes/chains etc. This is very dangerous, many morning walkers in the park have expressed concern and are scared," said Sanjeev Kumar, a regular at the park.
Kumar said no amount of reasoning has worked with the group. Hence, he demands action from the Noida authority. "As per authority policy, no dog is allowed in public spaces without a leash. This should be adhered to," he said.
Anita Singh, another resident, said the park could be segregated by installing grilles for dogs to play like in other countries, so that the safety of the visitors is ensured. Meanwhile, Captain (retd) VK Kapoor of Sector 33 says stray dogs in parks and residential areas are also a problem for morning walkers.
The Authority has maintained clear instructions against pets without leash. "No dog is allowed in any public space without a leash. It is the responsibility of the pet owner to ensure his pet is on a leash outside," said Indu Prakash OSDO Noida Authority.