Srinagar, Oct 13 (KINS): The growing presence of stray dogs across Bemina has become a serious concern for residents, with schoolchildren, elderly people and pedestrians facing difficulties moving around safely.
Locals say the situation has worsened in several areas, including Al-Farooq Colony and Ibrahim Colony, and are urging the authorities to take immediate steps to address the problem.
Residents said packs of stray dogs can frequently be seen roaming residential lanes and streets, raising concerns among parents sending their children to school and elderly people who have to step out for daily errands. They fear that without timely intervention, the situation could become more difficult to manage.
Locals have also expressed concern over incidents of dogs chasing vehicles and cyclists, creating risks for both pedestrians and commuters. They said people often feel anxious while walking through certain stretches, particularly during early morning and evening hours.
“People should not have to worry about their children’s safety while sending them to school or about elderly family members stepping outside. The authorities need to take this issue seriously and provide relief to residents,” said a local resident.
Another resident said that while sterilisation is an important long-term measure to control the stray dog population, the administration must also address immediate public safety concerns.
“Sterilisation takes time to show results. The Srinagar Municipal Corporation should strengthen its efforts and ensure that complaints about aggressive dogs are addressed promptly. Residents need a practical solution before the situation worsens further,” he said.
Residents have called on the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) to intensify animal birth control measures, improve monitoring in affected neighbourhoods and establish an effective mechanism for responding to complaints about aggressive or injured animals.
They stressed that controlling the stray dog population requires sustained action, proper waste management and responsible handling of animals, alongside measures to protect people from dog attacks.
The residents said Bemina’s growing residential areas need particular attention, as children, senior citizens and other pedestrians regularly use the same narrow lanes where stray dogs gather.
The SMC officials could not be contacted for their comments on the concerns raised by residents.
Locals have urged the civic body to intervene without delay, saying public safety must remain a priority and that a coordinated, humane and effective response is needed to address the recurring problem. (KINS)
