Residents of Natipora in Srinagar have raised serious concerns over the growing population of stray dogs in the area, saying the situation has turned alarming and unsafe, especially during evening and night hours.

Locals said the streets are overrun by packs of dogs, making it difficult for people—particularly children, women, and the elderly—to move around safely. “After sunset, it becomes risky to step outside. The dogs chase pedestrians and vehicles, creating panic almost every night,” said Bilal Ahmad, a resident of Natipora.
Shopkeepers and commuters have echoed similar fears, claiming that the menace has also led to several dog-bite incidents in recent weeks. “We can’t even go for morning prayers or evening walks. It’s becoming unbearable,” said another resident, adding that garbage heaps and unattended food waste have worsened the problem.
Locals alleged that repeated pleas to the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) have gone unanswered. They urged the authorities to take immediate steps to sterilize stray dogs and improve waste management to control the growing threat.
Residents have appealed for coordinated action involving the SMC, Animal Welfare Department, and local communities to ensure public safety. “We just want our children to walk freely without fear,” said a worried parent, reflecting the growing frustration across Natipora.