Panic grips Chamba locality after stray dog bites more than a dozen

Panic spread through the Hatnala locality of Chamba town on Wednesday after a stray dog attacked and injured more than a dozen people, including schoolchildren. The attacks occurred in the morning, with the dog biting anyone in its path. Several victims, including schoolchildren and passersby, sustained serious injuries. Three to four individuals were left heavily bleeding after the attack, and many sustained deep wounds to their faces, arms, legs, and other parts of their bodies.

Most of the injured were treated at Jawaharlal Nehru Government Medical College in Chamba and later discharged, except for those with more severe injuries who required further treatment. Among the injured were Duni Chand from Masrund village and a local woman who were attacked while walking through the Hatnala ward. Both sustained deep facial injuries and needed stitches. The dog also attacked several school children and others in the vicinity before it was eventually killed by locals and municipal workers.

The incident has heightened fear among residents, especially parents, who are concerned for the safety of their children. Local authorities have faced increasing calls to address the growing number of stray dogs in the town. Areas near meat shops have been particularly affected, where dogs tend to gather in large numbers.

Health experts have emphasised the need for immediate treatment after animal bites, especially from stray dogs and wild animals like monkeys, foxes and jackals. They stressed that those bitten should receive anti-rabies vaccines (ARV) and necessary medical care within 72 hours to prevent severe health risks. Doctors urge residents not to take dog bites lightly and to seek prompt medical attention.

Despite the surge in stray dogs, the district administration and municipal council do not have accurate data on the number of stray animals in Chamba. Officiating Principal of Chamba Medical College, Dr Pankaj Gupta, confirmed that more than a dozen people were injured in the attack. All victims were treated and vaccinated, with most discharged after receiving care.