523 dog bite cases in 2 months; Animal Birth Control plan yet to take off in Kapurthala

With 523 dog bite cases reported in just two months, Kapurthala district-especially Phagwara-is witnessing rising public concern over the stray dog menace, even as the Animal Birth Control drive has yet to be effectively implemented on the ground.

According to health department data, hundreds of residents across the district have sought treatment following dog bite incidents, with a significant number of cases reported from Phagwara and its adjoining localities. Civil hospital sources indicate that victims include children, elderly residents and daily commuters, many of whom require anti-rabies vaccinations and follow-up treatment.

Despite the alarming numbers, municipal corporations in the district appear to be struggling to address the issue. Officials have cited the non-implementation of the ABC programme—which involves sterilisation and vaccination of stray dogs—as a major hurdle in controlling the rising population of stray animals. The programme, mandated under central guidelines, aims to humanely manage stray dog numbers and curb the spread of rabies. However, in Kapurthala district, tenders, logistical arrangements and infrastructure gaps have reportedly delayed its rollout.

In Phagwara, residents of several colonies have complained about packs of stray dogs roaming streets, especially during late evening and early morning hours. Some residents allege that repeated complaints to the municipal authorities have not yielded sustained action.

Municipal officials, on their part, maintain that without a functional sterilisation facility and trained veterinary teams, long-term control remains difficult. Sources within the civic bodies admit that while temporary measures such as relocation or limited drives have been attempted in the past, these have not delivered lasting results. Budget constraints and procedural delays have further complicated matters.

In Kapurthala town as well, residents from various wards have voiced similar concerns. Civic activists argue that the absence of a structured and transparent ABC mechanism has left municipal councils appearing ineffective and reactive rather than proactive. With dog bite cases steadily rising, critics say the situation reflects administrative unpreparedness.

Officials from the district administration have stated that efforts are underway to initiate the ABC programme at the earliest and that proposals regarding infrastructure and operational logistics are being processed. Authorities have also appealed to citizens not to provoke stray animals and to report aggressive dogs to the concerned civic body.