Srinagar, May 26: Arif Laigaroo, the state secretary and constituency in-charge of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for Habba Kadal, expressed concerns over the growing threat of stray dog packs in Srinagar’s downtown areas.
In a statement issued here, he said that despite claims from the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) about a reduction in the stray dog population, residents continue to face various issues.
Laigaroo said that packs of stray dogs are a common sight in various areas, including Islamyerbal, Pathermasjid, Fateh Kadal, Zaldagar and Karfali Mohalla. “The residents of these areas are still severely affected by the stray dog population, and the trend is likely to continue if the authorities do not take more effective measures,” he said.
The PDP leader criticised the current control methods used by the SMC, saying out that trapping is rarely considered, undervalued and underutilised. He said the SMC is unaware of various laws regarding the control of stray dogs, despite numerous complaints from residents.
Laigaroo further said that some of the stray dogs in the Habba Kadal area appear to be rabid, posing an increased risk to public safety. “Not only are dog bites a concern, but accidents also frequently occur as stray dogs chase motorists, particularly after dark. The situation has become so dire that residents find it extremely challenging to go out for morning prayers, comparing it to navigating a battlefield,” he said.
