120 dog bite cases reported in Phagwara Civil Hospital in Feb

Over 240 cases of dog bite have been reported at the Phagwara Civil Hospital in the last two months. The menace of stray dogs in the town continues to intensify, with several residents reportedly injured in recent dog attacks across different localities. Fear has gripped neighbourhoods as packs of stray dogs roam freely in residential streets, market areas and near schools, leaving parents, elderly citizens and daily commuters anxious about their safety.

Over the past few months, multiple cases of dog bites have been reported, with victims requiring medical attention and anti-rabies treatment. Residents allege that despite repeated complaints, the problem persists with little visible relief on the ground. Morning walkers and schoolchildren are said to be particularly vulnerable, as stray dogs often gather in groups during early hours and late evenings.

In a tragic development recently, a child lost his life after being allegedly attacked by stray dogs, an incident that sent shock waves through the region and intensified public anger. The heartbreaking episode has become a grim reminder of the potential danger posed by unchecked stray dog populations. When contacted, Senior Medical Officer Dr Simardeep Kaur told The Tribune here on Thursday that 124 dog bite cases had been registered in the month of January in the Civil Hospital of Phagwara while an equal number must have been registered at ESI Hospital, Phagwara, and the Civil Hospital of Panchhat, besides private hospitals. In February, 120 dog bite cases were witnessed in the Phagwara Civil Hospital.

Citizens claim that while meetings are held and instructions issued, concrete and sustained action remains limited. The Municipal Corporation and the Veterinary Department are reportedly struggling to manage the situation effectively. Officials cite legal provisions related to animal welfare, limited manpower and logistical challenges as hurdles in conducting large-scale stray dog catching or relocation drives.

Sources indicate that attempts to remove or relocate aggressive dogs often faced opposition from certain animal lovers and activists, leading to hesitation in strict enforcement. At the same time, many residents admit they are reluctant to confront such groups directly, further complicating the situation. As a result, authorities appear caught between regulatory restrictions, public safety concerns and activist resistance.

Local residents are now demanding a comprehensive and coordinated strategy, including intensified sterilisation and vaccination drives, identification of aggressive dogs, and faster response mechanisms to emergency complaints. Many believe that unless decisive and balanced measures are implemented soon, incidents of dog bites and injuries may continue to rise.

For now, the stray dog menace remains a pressing civic challenge in Phagwara, with frightened residents hoping for immediate and effective intervention before more lives are put at risk.