Srinagar: Stray dogs continue to roam the streets of Srinagar, raising concerns among residents as incidents of dog bites surge across the city.
The growing population of stray dogs, often seen in residential neighborhoods, schools, parks, and markets, has become a pressing issue for public safety. With the number of reported dog bite cases on the rise, locals are increasingly worried, particularly about the safety of children, the elderly, and those walking through public spaces.
According to data from the Anti-Rabies Clinic at SMHS Hospital, Srinagar recorded 6,519 out of 8,652 total dog bite cases in the region from April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2024. This marks the highest number of reported cases in a decade, underscoring the urgency of addressing the issue. The monthly data reveals alarming trends, with March 2024 seeing 1,107 cases, followed by 847 in June and 710 in May. Other months have also experienced high numbers, indicating a persistent problem.
The situation extends beyond Srinagar, with districts such as Budgam (302 cases), Baramulla (242 cases), and Bandipora (251 cases) reporting significant numbers. Even areas outside Kashmir reported 614 cases, further highlighting the widespread nature of the problem. Over the last decade, dog bite cases have steadily increased, from 7,061 in 2015-16 to the current peak of 8,652. In total, around 58,000 cases have been reported at the Anti-Rabies Clinic since 2015.
The fear among residents is evident, with many expressing concerns over the growing stray dog population and the increasing risk of attacks. Areas like Bemina, Lal Chowk, Hyderpora, Bagh-e-Mehtab, Chanapora, Natipora, Nowgam, Bhatshahnagar, and Nowhatta are some of the worst affected, where packs of dogs scavenge near garbage dumps and playgrounds. These areas, where residential and commercial spaces are in close proximity, often see aggressive dogs drawn to food waste.
“I was walking with my child when a stray dog attacked us without warning,” said Nighat, a resident of Bemina. “Thankfully, we weren’t seriously injured, but the fear is unbearable. I can’t take my children to the park anymore because of the constant threat of stray dogs.”
Rashid Ahmad, a resident of Hyderpora, echoed similar concerns, “I’ve seen groups of dogs running through the streets, chasing after cars and pedestrians. I worry for my elderly father, who struggles to walk on his own. One day, I’m afraid he’ll be bitten.”
The safety of children has become a primary worry for many. “I’m constantly worried when my kids go outside to play,” said Tabassum, a resident of Nowgam. “Even simple tasks, like walking to the grocery store, feel risky. There are stray dogs everywhere, and it seems like the authorities aren’t doing enough to control them.”
The surge in dog bite incidents in Srinagar not only presents a significant safety risk but also highlights a public health crisis, with health experts warning about the potential spread of rabies, a deadly disease transmitted through bites. “This is not just a safety issue; it’s a public health crisis,” said a health official from GMC Srinagar, who requested anonymity. The increasing number of cases has strained local hospitals and clinics, leading to a higher demand for rabies vaccinations for both humans and animals.
Beyond the immediate physical harm, the growing stray dog population also takes an emotional, psychological, and financial toll on victims. A study by the Department of Community Medicine at GMC Srinagar revealed that many sufferers experience long-term emotional distress, while others face financial hardships due to medical costs. The rising number of cases is not just a health issue but a multi-dimensional crisis, affecting the safety, well-being, and livelihoods of the entire community.
In response, local authorities have ramped up efforts through sterilization programs under the Animal Birth Control (ABC) initiative. Since its launch two years ago, over 14,000 dogs have been sterilized, with more than 5,000 sterilizations in 2023 alone. In 2024, the number increased by 26%, with 6,702 dogs undergoing the procedure. Alongside sterilization, anti-rabies vaccinations have also risen, with 6,848 dogs vaccinated in 2024, up from 5,283 in 2023.
However, many residents feel these efforts fall short. “They will pick a few dogs from every locality while leaving a significant number of fertile animals behind to continue breeding. They need to sanitize an area before they move on to the other,” Fayaz Ahmad, a resident of Raj Bagh area said. “Sterilization is just one part of the solution,” said Javed Shah, an animal rights activist. “There needs to be a more comprehensive approach, which includes stricter enforcement of animal control laws and a greater focus on rehabilitation and adoption.”
According to Tawheed Ahmed Najar, the SMC Veterinary Officer, relocating or euthanizing stray dogs is prohibited under the Animal Birth Control Rule, 2023. “Sterilized dogs are returned to their original territories, a practice deemed essential as it allows the animals to reorient to their familiar environment without contributing to the continued growth of the stray population,” he added.
A key challenge in managing the stray dog population is the limited capacity for sterilization. The Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) operates two sterilization centers—one in Shuhama and another in Tengpora—but they can handle only 10-20 dogs per day, which is far below the demand required to control Srinagar’s estimated stray dog population of 60,000 to 70,000. To address this, a third center is currently under construction in Ahal Chatterhama.
Furthermore, to enhance efficiency, the SMC has outsourced the ABC program to an agency from Rajasthan, tasked with sterilizing dogs throughout the city.
Winter conditions also hinder sterilization efforts. Dr. Najar explained, “Surgeries can’t be conducted during the peak cold months because sub-zero temperatures could lead to higher mortality rates.” However, he said that a new clinic with heating arrangements is being established to allow sterilizations to continue throughout the winter.
Dr. Tawheed remains optimistic about the long-term benefits of sterilization. “Dog bites usually occur during the lactation period. As we continue with sterilization efforts, the number of dog bites will gradually decrease. However, this is a slow process, and both the dog population and bite incidents will reduce over time, not immediately,” he added.
While authorities work on long-term solutions through sterilization and vaccination programs, residents continue to demand faster, more effective measures. Until then, the people of Srinagar remain on edge, hoping for a timely resolution to the growing dog menace that threatens their safety and quality of life.
