Srinagar, Oct 2: Residents of Natipora are increasingly concerned over the growing presence of stray dogs in several residential pockets, with elderly people and children facing particular difficulty during morning and evening hours.

Residents said groups of stray dogs are frequently seen roaming around lanes, roadsides and near residential areas, creating fear among pedestrians. The problem becomes more noticeable during the early morning and evening when children travel to and from schools, residents go for walks and people return home from work.
Several residents said elderly people are particularly vulnerable as sudden movements or barking by packs of dogs can cause panic and force pedestrians to change their route. Parents have also expressed concern over children walking or cycling through lanes where groups of dogs are present.
“Children and elderly people are the most worried. We have to accompany children in some areas, particularly during the morning and evening,” residents said.
The issue has also raised concerns about road safety, as pedestrians and two-wheeler riders may suddenly encounter dogs crossing roads or moving in groups. Residents said the situation requires timely intervention before it results in serious injuries or other incidents.
Locals have urged the concerned civic authorities to undertake a sustained programme for controlling the stray dog population and to address complaints from affected neighbourhoods. They also called for proper garbage management, saying the availability of uncovered food waste can contribute to the concentration of stray dogs around residential areas.
Residents stressed that the issue should be addressed through humane and scientifically managed measures, including sterilisation, vaccination and responsible waste disposal, rather than sporadic drives.
They appealed to the authorities to identify dog hotspots in Natipora, intensify monitoring and establish an effective mechanism through which residents can report aggressive or injured animals.
The residents said the problem is not merely about inconvenience but also about ensuring that children, senior citizens and other pedestrians can move safely through their neighbourhood.
They urged the concerned departments to take preventive measures and ensure regular follow-up so that Natipora’s residential areas do not remain vulnerable to the stray dog menace.