There are currently 597 reconstruction sites in Seoul, where a number of stray cats are known to have taken up abode. (Yonhap)
SEOUL, Jun. 18 (Korea Bizwire) — Government intervention is being called for as an increasing number of stray cats are being killed at reconstruction sites.
There are currently 597 reconstruction sites in Seoul, where a number of stray cats are known to have taken up abode.
Stray cats are known to remain in their territory, and have the instinct to hide in deep places when threatened by loud noises.
This is one of the main causes of feline deaths at reconstruction sites, where cats are crushed by falling debris.
Many feline pets are also left behind at reconstruction sites after their owners abandon them as they move out.
In response, civil groups are making efforts to rescue the cats, but only a few of them are known to have been saved.
The stray cat issue has led the Seoul Metropolitan Government to come up with countermeasures. This March, the city introduced a new plan to amend city ordinances to protect the animals at reconstruction sites.
The new measure will oblige construction companies to ensure that safety measures are put in place before they carry construction projects, and work with civil groups to conduct on-site search and rescue operations.
The construction companies and local residents, however, are concerned that the new measure might obstruct the reconstruction process.
In order to reflect the interest of all concerned parties, the city opened up an online forum last Thursday for discussion.
As of Saturday, 169 out of 172 participants supported the new protection policy.
Most of the supporters said that protective measures are essential to ensure respect for life, while some argued that the issue needs careful attention since there are currently no acceptable or standardized regulations or ways to move and protect the animals.
H. M. Kang (hmkang@koreabizwire.com)
