Srinagar, July 28: Residents of Natipora area of Srinagar have raised serious concern over the growing menace of stray dogs, alleging that frequent dog attacks and unrestricted movement of canines have created fear among locals, especially children and elderly people.

Residents said that packs of stray dogs are often seen roaming in residential lanes, posing a threat to pedestrians and commuters. They claimed that children going to schools and people heading for daily work face constant apprehension due to the increasing presence of aggressive dogs in the area.
Locals urged the concerned authorities to take immediate measures to address the issue and ensure the safety of residents. They appealed for effective implementation of animal birth control programmes, regular monitoring of stray dog populations and prompt action against complaints of dog attacks.
“People are afraid to move freely, especially during early morning and evening hours. The authorities need to act before any serious incident takes place,” residents said.
They also stressed the need for proper waste management, stating that open garbage dumps often attract stray dogs and contribute to the growing problem.
Officials concerned have been urged to conduct a survey of the affected areas and take necessary steps to control the stray dog population while following established animal welfare guidelines.
The residents expressed hope that the Srinagar Municipal Corporation and other agencies would intervene promptly and provide a long-term solution to the recurring issue.