The growing stray dog menace in Srinagar has become a significant concern for residents, leading to increased incidents of dog bites and a pervasive sense of insecurity. Areas such as Bhorikadal, Khanyar, Eidgah, Nawakadal, and Dalgate have reported frequent encounters with packs of stray dogs, particularly during early morning and late evening hours.
The Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) has initiated sterilization programs to control the stray dog population. However, these efforts have been temporarily halted due to harsh winter conditions, with plans to resume once temperatures rise.
Residents have called for immediate measures, including the establishment of dog shelters and designated feeding zones, to address the issue effectively. The situation has also impacted local businesses, with shopkeepers reporting a decline in customer footfall due to fears of stray dog attacks.
In response to the growing menace, residents are advocating for comprehensive strategies that include sterilization, vaccination, and public awareness campaigns to manage the stray dog population and mitigate associated risks