The streets of Srinagar are increasingly becoming unsafe due to the growing menace of stray dogs, with the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) facing criticism for its apparent inaction. Residents across various localities say the problem has escalated to dangerous levels, especially during early morning and late evening hours when packs of stray dogs dominate roads and alleys.
From Lal Chowk to Downtown and peripheral areas like Bemina, Eidgah, and Chanapora, people are reporting frequent dog attacks. Parents hesitate to let children play outside, and early-morning walkers and late-shift workers say they fear for their safety.
“I was attacked near my gate last week,” said Shabnam Jan, a resident of Rajbagh. “Luckily, I escaped with minor injuries, but it could have been worse. The dogs are everywhere, and the SMC seems to be doing nothing.”
Locals say the issue worsens near garbage dumps and uncovered drains, where dogs find food and shelter. Poor waste management, irregular garbage collection, and lack of sterilization efforts have compounded the problem.
Despite repeated assurances, SMC’s dog sterilization and control program appears to be failing. According to internal sources, the sterilization center lacks manpower, resources, and proper coordination.
“We get dozens of complaints daily, but we’re short-staffed and need better infrastructure to manage the situation,” admitted an SMC official on condition of anonymity.
Animal rights activists argue for humane solutions but acknowledge that the situation is spiraling. “The answer lies in long-term, sustained sterilization programs and responsible waste disposal — not in reactive measures,” said Dr. Arif, a local veterinarian.
With public frustration growing and no visible solution in sight, citizens are demanding urgent action from the SMC before the problem becomes a full-blown public safety crisis. For now, in many parts of the city, it is the stray dogs — not people — who rule the streets after dark.