The Istanbul Governor’s Office has released a new directive prohibiting the feeding of stray dogs in public spaces across the city, Yeni Şafak reports. According to Turkish government data, more than 4 million stray dogs roam urban and rural areas nationwide.
The circular states that uncontrolled feeding creates risks to public health and citizen safety. The ban covers areas around hospitals, schools, airports, places of worship, parks, gardens, roadside zones and children’s playgrounds. Municipal authorities are instructed to ensure strict compliance.
The document also notes that earlier this year municipalities were allocated land for the construction of animal shelters. The governor’s office urges districts that have not yet built such facilities to proceed without delay.
Stray dogs have become a contentious issue in Turkey. Last year, the Turkish parliament passed a law aimed at removing dogs from city streets. Animal rights groups condemned the legislation as a “kill law,” warning it could lead to mass euthanasia and overcrowded, poorly maintained shelters.
Public concern intensified again in March after a girl was fatally attacked by a pack of stray dogs in Konya province. The incident prompted strong reactions from the ministers of justice and interior, both of whom called for tighter controls.
In August, Istanbul authorities announced plans for the urgent removal of stray dogs from the streets, though the measure has not yet been fully implemented.