Police Line area residents irked over rising number of stray dogs; want remedial action

Residents of Police Line area, a walled locality on the Lawrence Road, are irked over the rising number of stray dogs. With more than 50 stray dogs roaming freely inside the locality, the residents fear for the safety of children and elderly people.

The situation has come to such a pass that dogs often chase people during their daily routines, including those running on the parade ground on the Police Line premises. Even police personnel rehearsing for the upcoming Republic Day celebrations on January 26 have reported disturbances being caused by stray dogs.

Residents of the Police Quarters stated that some cases of dog bite have also been reported in the past. They have complained to the MC many times to remove such dogs from the premises of Police Line but to no avail.

Speaking on the matter, a resident of the Police Quarters said, “It’s not just about nuisance, it’s about safety also. Children cannot play outside, and elders avoid stepping out in the evenings due to the fear of being attacked by these dogs. We have repeatedly complained to the Amritsar Municipal Corporation (MC), but no concrete action has been taken. Every time we raise the issue, we get only empty assurances.”

The problem is not limited to personal safety. Police personnel preparing for the district Republic Day function are also facing the dog menace. “It’s hard to focus on rehearsals when you constantly have to stay alert with stray dogs running about in the ground,” said a cop on condition of anonymity.

Despite the repeated complaints by residents and police personnel, no concrete measures have been implemented to address the issue. The residents have urged the authorities to take immediate action to check the rising dog population and ensure a safer environment for all residents of the locality. The residents now want a prompt and effective response from the municipal corporation, as they continue to deal with stray dogs.