Srinagar’s busy Polo View market, one of the city’s prominent commercial hubs, is increasingly witnessing the presence of stray dogs roaming freely through its lanes, raising concerns among shopkeepers, pedestrians and visitors.

Locals say packs of dogs can be seen resting near shop entrances, moving through the crowded pedestrian market and occasionally chasing passersby, particularly during early morning and late evening hours. The situation, they say, has become a regular sight in the otherwise bustling shopping area.
Shopkeepers in the market say the growing presence of stray dogs is affecting the movement of customers and creating a sense of fear among visitors. Many claim that dogs often gather around food outlets and garbage points, which attracts larger groups of strays to the area.
Pedestrians, especially elderly people and children, say they often feel uneasy walking through the market as some of the dogs behave aggressively or suddenly start barking at people passing by.
Locals believe that improper waste disposal and leftover food thrown in open areas are among the reasons attracting stray dogs to the market. They say better sanitation and regular waste clearance could help reduce the problem.
Residents and traders have urged the Srinagar Municipal Corporation to take measures to address the issue, including stray dog control drives and improved waste management in the area.
Many say Polo View is a key tourist and shopping destination in Srinagar and ensuring the safety and comfort of visitors is important. They hope authorities will take timely action to manage the stray dog population and maintain the market’s reputation as a vibrant public space.