Panic spread through several areas of downtown Srinagar on Sunday after a dog attacked and injured multiple people across Sekidafar, Nawakadal, Eidgah and nearby localities. According to eyewitnesses quoted in media reports, the dog moved through streets in Sekidafar, Rashanhar and Nopora, biting passersby and triggering widespread chaos. Residents reportedly fled in panic as the dog continued its rampage, leaving at least six people injured. The situation led to a rush of patients at Shri Maharaja Hari Singh (SMHS) Hospital in Srinagar. Hospital officials confirmed that six individuals from the Sekidafar area were treated for dog bites and administered anti-rabies vaccines. They also noted that over 40 cases of dog bites had been reported from various parts of the Valley on the same day, prompting fresh calls for more aggressive sterilization efforts. Local residents have demanded that authorities capture the dog responsible for the attacks and put measures in place to avoid similar incidents. This episode has once again brought attention to the growing issue of stray dogs in Kashmir and the risks they pose to public safety. The problem demands urgent and sustained action. Current sterilization efforts at centers in Shuhama and Tengpora need to be stepped up as the scope of the problem requires a broader response. Establishing additional sterilization centers across the Valley, equipped with veterinary care and facilities for housing stray dogs, could improve the situation. These centers would allow for the systematic capture, care and sterilization of strays, offering a more organized response to the problem. Vaccination campaigns also play a crucial role in preventing the spread of rabies, protecting both animals and humans. When combined with sterilization, such drives can reduce health risks and help keep the stray population under control over time. Cooperation with animal welfare organizations can also contribute to managing the issue more effectively by bringing in expertise and supporting public education efforts. Apart from sterilization and vaccination, the implementation of existing animal control laws needs to be strengthened. Clear regulations on pet ownership, proper registration and penalties for abandonment must be enforced to prevent further growth of the stray population. Better waste management and sanitation systems are equally essential, as easy access to food from open garbage keeps stray dogs near populated areas. The presence of a large stray dog population stems from multiple factors, including accessible food, breeding opportunities, shelter and lenient control measures. While public frustration with stray dogs is understandable, especially after biting incidents, it is important to recognize that many strays bite only when provoked, unwell or under extreme stress. At the same time, stray animals face serious health risks and poor living conditions, often suffering from disease or injury. Dealing with this challenge requires sustained effort, thoughtful planning, and the will to balance public health concerns with humane treatment of animals. The Sunday’s attacks in Srinagar should serve as a reminder of the need to rethink current policies and take consistent action to manage the issue of stray canines more effectively in the Kashmir valley.
Street Panic
