Phagwara residents continue to live in fear as stray dog menace spirals

The stray dog menace in Phagwara and its surrounding villages has reached alarming proportions, with dog bite incidents being reported almost daily. The persistent attacks have triggered widespread fear among residents, many of whom say they avoid venturing out altogether, even during daytime.

Civil and private hospitals in Phagwara sub division continue to see a steady inflow of dog bite patients, with an estimated 250–300 victims — including women and children — treated every month. Medical staff at the civil hospitals of sub division confirm that 10 to 15 new cases are being reported daily.

Doctors warn that the recurring shortage of the costly immunoglobulin vials — crucial for immediate relief in severe cases — has caused significant distress to patients.

The vials are not easily available, forcing many victims to rush from one facility to another in search of timely treatment. Several recent attacks involved minors who had to be admitted to the civil hospital for emergency care.

According to civic body estimates, between 3,000 and 5,000 stray dogs are roaming across the sub division. Packs of dogs have been spotted in almost every locality, including Hargobind Nagar, one of the city’s affluenct areas. Morning walkers, especially senior citizens, have begun carrying sticks as a precaution.

While officials claim that steps are being taken to address the situation, little visible progress has been made. Phagwara Municipal Corporation Assistant Commissioner Aneesh Bansal announced the launch of the Animal Birth Control (ABC) project on November 19, aimed at sterilising stray dogs and releasing them back in the same areas. However, the process has reportedly moved at a sluggish pace.

It was observed that the lack of coordination between the MC and Veterinary Department could be the cause behind the worsening situation. Some civic body officers alleged that the Animal Husbandry Department was not playing team, despite repeated written requests for veterinary teams to carry out sterilisation drives.

This inter-departmental deadlock has stalled meaningful action, even as cases continue to climb.

Adding to the residents’ grievances is the deteriorating state of emergency response. In one instance, a dog bite victim in need of urgent treatment was asked to first obtain an OPD slip and arrange necessary injections on his own before being attended to by medical staff.

Civil hospital authorities confirm that while anti-rabies vaccines are generally available, the immunoglobulin injection remains difficult to procure due to its high cost and limited supply. Despite repeated attempts, SMO Simardeep Kaur could not be contacted for comments.