Rising Stray Dog Population Sparks Safety Concerns in Jammu
||Black and White Digital News ||
||Parvinder Singh January 29,2025 ||
JAMMU : The increasing population of stray dogs across various localities in the Jammu division has become a growing concern, with a surge in dog bite incidents and street accidents. The issue has put senior citizens and children at significant risk, as frequent dog attacks instill fear among residents.
Rising Cases of Dog Attacks and Accidents:
Reports indicate a sharp rise in dog bite cases, posing serious health hazards, including the risk of rabies. Many elderly residents and children have been victims of these attacks, limiting their movement in public spaces.
In addition to direct attacks, stray dogs have also been contributing to road accidents. There have been several instances where motorists lost control while trying to avoid a sudden dog crossing, leading to injuries and, in some cases, fatalities. The presence of stray dogs, especially in high-traffic zones, has escalated the risk of both pedestrian and vehicular accidents.
JMC’s Efforts and Challenges:
The Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) has a dedicated animal safety division responsible for managing stray animals, including dogs, cows, horses, and buffaloes. The division works as per established guidelines to ensure public safety while maintaining animal welfare. However, despite its efforts, the situation remains challenging due to the increasing stray population.
Allegations of Interference from NGOs:
Reliable sources suggest that certain animal welfare NGOs are interfering with the smooth functioning of the JMC’s animal safety division. Allegedly, due to pressure from these organizations, officials are hesitant to take necessary actions to manage stray dogs effectively. This has led to growing frustration among residents, who feel that their safety concerns are being overlooked.
Public Outcry and Demands for Action:
Several senior citizens have approached local authorities, raising complaints about the growing menace of stray dogs. They demand immediate intervention to curb the stray population through sterilization programs, rehabilitation efforts, and stricter enforcement of municipal regulations.
Local residents have urged JMC to take a balanced approach, ensuring both public safety and animal welfare without external influence hindering necessary actions. There is a pressing need for collaborative efforts between municipal authorities, NGOs, and law enforcement to find a sustainable solution.
Way Forward: Experts suggest that a combination of mass sterilization, vaccination drives, and proper feeding zones could help in managing the stray dog population. Additionally, public awareness campaigns on responsible pet ownership and strict penalties for abandoning pets could prevent the problem from escalating further.
With increasing concerns and rising cases of dog bites and accidents, authorities must act promptly to restore public confidence and ensure a safer environment for all. The challenge remains in striking a balance between animal welfare and public safety to prevent further incidents in the city.
