Srinagar, Mar 17: Residents of Harwan area in Srinagar are grappling with a growing stray dog menace, causing serious difficulties for the elderly and children commuting in the neighbourhood. Locals claim that packs of stray dogs roam freely on streets, posing safety risks and creating fear among pedestrians.

Elderly residents said walking to nearby markets or mosques has become challenging due to aggressive stray dogs, especially during early morning and evening hours. “We are scared to step out for daily errands or prayers because these dogs often chase or attack people,” said an elderly resident. Parents also expressed concern about children going to school, noting that kids have been bitten or threatened while commuting.
Residents allege that repeated complaints to the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) and local authorities have gone unaddressed. “We have informed the SMC several times, but there is no action. It feels like the authorities are in slumber while people face these risks daily,” a local shopkeeper said.
The menace has not only created fear but also disrupted normal life, with residents avoiding certain streets or taking longer, inconvenient routes to stay safe. Health concerns, including the risk of dog bites and rabies, have added to the anxiety of parents and senior citizens.
Local authorities have yet to respond publicly to the complaints, raising questions about accountability and the effectiveness of the city’s stray animal management programs. Residents are urging immediate intervention through capture, vaccination drives, and relocation programs to ensure public safety and restore normalcy in Harwan.
The ongoing situation underscores the urgent need for proactive municipal action to tackle stray animal issues and protect vulnerable citizens in Srinagar neighborhoods.