Srinagar, Nov 03: Addressing the growing stray dog population issue in Srinagar, the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) is hailing its ongoing dog sterilization campaign as a “huge success.” Commissioner Athar Amir Khan announced that the first phase of the process has been completed after three months of rigorous efforts.
Commissioner Khan expressed his satisfaction with the campaign’s progress, emphasizing that the SMC has worked diligently to manage the city’s stray dog population. He noted that during the initial phase of the campaign, there were concerns raised by the public, including allegations of dogs being relocated from one area to another. However, Commissioner Khan clarified that these claims were untrue and that the SMC’s teams have been rehabilitating dogs in their respective areas after sterilization.
Over the past three months, the SMC has sterilized and vaccinated many dogs, with a notable 10 to 20 per cent having undergone the procedure so far. While this marks a significant achievement, Commissioner Khan acknowledged that complete sterilization will require more time and effort.
As winter approaches, the sterilization process may see a temporary slowdown due to the need for suitable post-sterilization conditions to minimize the mortality rate among the dogs. Nonetheless, the SMC remains committed to addressing the stray dog issue that has been a concern for many residents.
Srinagar has been grappling with an alarming rise in the stray dog population, which has posed a significant threat to pedestrians, particularly children and the elderly. Residents have consistently called for concrete measures to control the escalating number of canines in the city.
According to Srinagar residents, the ongoing success of the dog sterilization campaign is a promising step towards alleviating this problem and ensuring the safety and well-being of Srinagar’s residents. The SMC, in collaboration with the community, remains dedicated to its efforts to manage the stray dog population and provide a safer environment for all.
