Guwahati: Humane World for Animals India (formerly Humane Society International), an animal protection organisation, in collaboration with Anaajoree and the Railway Protection Force, has launched a digital public awareness campaign at Guwahati Railway Station to strengthen public vigilance against the illegal transport of dogs for the dog-meat trade.
The digital advertisements are now live across the Railway Display Network, urging citizens to stay alert, act responsibly and report suspicious activity.
Every year, thousands of dogs are stolen or captured and transported in inhumane conditions—often tied up in sacks, boxes or baskets and hidden inside sealed containers for the dog-meat trade.
These acts are not only cruel but illegal and punishable under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 and the Transport of Animals Rules, 1978.
The digital campaign urges the public to stay alert for warning signs of cruelty, including dogs trapped or tied in sacks, boxes, or baskets, as well as animals found with their mouths or legs bound. It also advises people to be cautious of unusual noises or movement coming from sealed or closed containers, which may indicate hidden animals in distress.
Any suspected illegal dog transport through the railways should be reported immediately to the railway helpline number 139.
Keren Nazareth, Senior Director of Companion Animals and Engagement at Humane World for Animals India, said: “With this public service announcement, we’re asking people to help stop animal cruelty and law breaking by staying alert and speaking up. One simple call can save many dogs from a brutal journey that will only end in a horrific death. Every citizen who chooses to report suspicious activity can protect countless dogs and help put an end to this illegal smuggling.”
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Arpita Baruah, Animal Welfare Consultant at Anaajoree, said: “This initiative strengthens community responsibility. By placing awareness at the heart of busy railway stations, we aim to turn observation into action. Real change begins when ordinary people refuse to look away. By reporting suspicious movement, citizens become the first line of resistance against the illegal dog meat trade. Together, we can dismantle this cruelty, one alert, one action at a time.”
