Beyond firefighting: Delhi Fire Service rescues 7K animals, birds in 10 months

Delhi Fire Service personnel rescued 6,949 stray dogs, cattle, and other animals and birds across Delhi in the first 10 months of 2026. Departmental data stated that firefighters saved 3,611 animals and 3,338 birds between January and October, averaging nearly 23 operations daily. The figures showed operations included saving animals trapped in drains, pits, canals, trees, and electric wires. According to a fire official, “Rescue operations also involve animals such as cows, cattle, dogs, cats and monkeys.” The department stated that operations can be challenging when animals are stranded at heights or near live wires, requiring specialized equipment and four dedicated bird rescue vehicles. Departmental figures further indicated that animal rescue calls rose to 4,357 during 2025-26 from 3,443 in the previous financial year, while bird rescue incidents increased to 3,770 from 2,650.