Stray dogs unleash terror in Sirsa; 30 bite cases being reported daily

Anil Kakkar

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Sirsa, March 6

The stray dog terror has made life difficult for Sirsa residents. The Civil Hospital receives 10-15 dog-bite cases daily, a massive surge since the days when only two-three such cases were reported.

In the last two months, the number of dog bites exceeded 550 in the Civil Hospital. Residents say if the victims who go to private hospitals are also taken into account, it can be concluded that 30 or more cases are being treated daily.

The Sirsa Municipal Council had issued tenders for sterilising and catching dogs, but even after a month, no agency has shown interest in taking the tender. The number of stray dogs in urban areas was increasing daily and there was no ready  plan for their sterilisation.

Stray dogs were teaming up in packs in areas like HUDA sectors and attacking children and women, leading to anger and resentment among residents. Even pet dogs have been attacking residents in a few cases. Residents complain that the civic authorities were not dealing with the situation with the sense of urgency it requires.

Mahendra Kumar, a resident of Prem Nagar, said: “There is a proliferation of stray dogs in the streets. Children are afraid to go out of their homes. Last week, my son was playing in an alley when a few dogs attacked him, causing injuries to his hands and feet. He was immediately taken to a private hospital, where he received injections.”

Another resident, Pawan Kumar of Kirti Nagar, said the municipal council and district administration were not serious about catching stray dogs. He added that dogs were present in packs in every street corner and alley.

Former councillor Ramesh Mehta said he had complained at the CM’s window regarding the matter, but no action was being taken. Mehta said if the problem was not resolved soon, residents would be forced to approach court to protect themselves.

Sirsa Municipal Council CEO Attar Singh said: “We had floated tenders for catching dogs and sterilising them, but no agency came forward for the tender. The tender will be reissued. All terms of the tender have been made with the consent of the Deputy Director of Animal Husbandry.”

Sirsa Additional SMO Dr Gaurav Arora said: “Our stock of anti-rabies vaccine is full to its capacity. As many as 12,500 doses are currently available. If a dog bites someone, they should immediately wash the wound thoroughly with tap water and soap, and consult a doctor as soon as possible.”