India, Sept. 25 -- The Maharashtra government on Wednesday directed all municipal corporations in the state to set up fully equipped veterinary hospitals.

During a review of the animal husbandry department's 100-day action plan earlier this year, the chief minister had noted the growing stray animal population in urban areas and called for better veterinary facilities.

According to the circular, municipal commissioners will be responsible for planning and setting up the hospitals. The Maharashtra Municipal Corporations Act, 1949, has provisions for municipalities to build or operate hospitals for animals as per Section 66(23) of the act, reads the order, signed by Anilkumar Ugle, secretary, urban development department.

Pune Municipal ...