As Assam braces for another intense monsoon season, one organisation is stepping up in an unexpected but vital way. The Kalpajyoti Foundation, a Dhubri-based non-profit, has launched an emergency response to help some of the most overlooked victims of natural disasters—street dogs.
Shelters Built Across Gauripur and Dhubri
On Sunday, June 1, the Kalpajyoti Foundation inaugurated four street dog shelters across various high-risk zones in Gauripur and Dhubri towns. These shelters, made of waterproof materials and elevated platforms, aim to protect stray animals from floodwaters, heavy rainfall, and other dangers of the monsoon.
The initiative comes at a crucial time. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted above-average rainfall in Assam, and several low-lying areas in Dhubri are already experiencing waterlogging.
“We cannot ignore the plight of voiceless animals. Our goal is to ensure that every life, no matter how small or ignored, is given a fair chance to survive,” said Afzal Ahmed, founder of Kalpajyoti Foundation.
Addressing a Gap in Disaster Response
While flood rescue and relief operations traditionally focus on human displacement, animal welfare during natural disasters often goes unaddressed. The Kalpajyoti Foundation’s street dog shelters fill a critical gap in Assam’s flood preparedness.
The shelters are being set up in consultation with local veterinarians and animal welfare experts. Each shelter can accommodate 10–15 dogs, offering them dry bedding, food, and clean drinking water. Volunteers will monitor and maintain the shelters, ensuring hygiene and safety throughout the flood season.
Local Authorities Welcome the Initiative
Gauripur Municipal Board officials have expressed support for the Foundation’s efforts. In a statement, Dhubri Deputy Commissioner also acknowledged the importance of including animals in the flood mitigation strategy.
“Floods don’t discriminate between humans and animals. We commend the Kalpajyoti Foundation for their empathy-driven work,” a district official said.
The Foundation is also collaborating with local schools and youth groups to raise awareness about street dog safety during monsoons, encouraging responsible feeding and compassion towards strays.
Citizens and Donors Pitch In
Several local residents have come forward to contribute. One such donor, Priya Das, who runs a local pharmacy, helped provide first aid kits for the shelters. “As the floods rise, these animals have nowhere to go. We can’t look the other way,” she said.
The Foundation has launched an online donation campaign to support more shelters in nearby flood-prone villages. Contributions are already pouring in, with help also being sought from animal rescue NGOs in Guwahati and Siliguri.
You can visit Kalpajyoti Foundation’s official site for details on how to support the initiative.
A Broader Shift Towards Humane Disaster Management
The Kalpajyoti Foundation’s work is part of a growing trend in India towards inclusive disaster response, which considers not just human lives but also the welfare of animals and the environment.
Organisations like People for Animals (PFA) and Humane Society International (HSI) have long advocated for this shift, and local efforts like Kalpajyoti’s show that the message is gaining ground even in smaller towns.
Support the Cause
With monsoon threats looming, Dhubri needs all hands on deck. Whether it’s contributing funds, volunteering time, or spreading the word, your help can save lives—human and animal alike.
Be a part of the change. Visit Kalpajyoti Foundation’s donation page or follow their social media for real-time updates and shelter needs.