Stray Dog Challenge : A Public Safety Issue

BY SHAKEEL BIN ABDUL ALI

In the delicate drapes of life, where dreams intertwine with reality, a recent tea rendezvous became a chapter etched in the fabric of my heart. The joy of shared moments and the enchantment of a connection, akin to a beautiful symphony, unfolded with each sip of tea. Yet, as dreams come true in the warmth of shared laughter, the realities of Kashmir University’s streets are painted with a different brushstroke—the increasing menace of stray dogs.
As I basked in the profound gratitude and sheer delight of our encounter, a silent wish surfaced from the depths of my being—to explore the realms beyond the confines of library, to share moments beyond the ordinary. The universe, with a touch of divine serendipity, granted this wish when my revered teacher invited me to share a cup of tea in the canteen. In that moment, joy knew no bounds, and I found myself yearning for more shared moments in her captivating presence.
The ethereal image she painted today, donned in mustard upper and complemented by a red stole, maroon trousers, and elegant blue shoes, was like a heavenly angel gracing earthly realms.
However, as we left the canteen and navigated our way to the classes, a group of stray dogs followed, and the juxtaposition of fear and composure mirrored the complexities of our connection. The incident unveiled a metaphor for a larger concern—the surge in stray dog attacks in the Kashmir Valley.
In the face of our romantic connection, the city grapples with a different kind of connection—one that poses a threat to its citizens. This essay explores the intertwining of romance and challenges, a symphony of love and the pressing need for comprehensive solutions to Kashmir's stray dog menace.
Rising incidents of Dog Bites
The latest event in Banihal, where a roving dog attacked at least nine people—two of them were women—brought the situation to a breaking point (Greater Kashmir November 12, 2023). Given the seriousness of the issue, this was the second attack of this kind to occur in the area in the previous 20 days. Although the victims, who ranged in age from 20 to 65, only had minor wounds, it is impossible to ignore the psychological damage and possible health risks associated with dog attacks.
Challenges Faced by the Authorities
The local authorities, have been under fire for what is believed to be a lack of response to the growing number of stray dogs. Further, the Srinagar Municipal Corporation's (SMC) sluggish sterilization program implementation has been identified as a significant element that exacerbates the issue and puts inhabitants' lives at jeopardy. There is a general problem, according to complaints from several parts of Srinagar, where open rubbish dumps serve as breeding grounds for stray dogs.
Stray Dog Menace in Srinagar:
The stray dog problem is posing a unique set of problems for Srinagar, the summer capital. Even after the SMC launched a significant sterilization campaign, the scope of the problem is still overwhelming. In addition to detracting from the city's aesthetic appeal, the hundreds of stray dogs that roam the streets, particularly in busy commercial areas like Lal Chowk, seriously endanger pedestrians, particularly the elderly and small children.
Statistics Reflecting the Severity:
The Anti-Rabies Clinic at SMHS Hospital has released disturbing data, showing that between April and October 2023, Srinagar recorded 346 occurrences of dog bites, the highest number of incidents in all of Kashmir. The fact that there were 4,695 dog bite instances in Kashmir in the preceding year alone—of which 3,448 were in Srinagar—demonstrates the inability to put in place long-term solutions.
The Immediate Need for All-encompassing Solutions:
In order to protect the lives of Kashmir's citizens, authorities must adopt a multifaceted strategy in response to the growing threat posed by stray dogs. Although the SMC has started sterilization drives, more significant and ongoing efforts are needed due to the scope of the problem.

1. Programs for Accelerated Sterilization: For the SMC to effectively manage the increasing number of stray dogs, sterilization programs must be accelerated and scaled up. The reach and impact of these initiatives can be increased through cooperation with regional communities and animal welfare organizations.

2. Improved Waste Management: Effective waste management is necessary to address the underlying cause of the issue. Open waste disposal sites should be thoroughly removed since they have been linked to the breeding of stray dogs. The number of stray dogs can be greatly decreased by implementing waste segregation at the source and using scientific disposal techniques, particularly for poultry waste.

3. Public Awareness and Education: To inform locals about responsible pet ownership and the significance of reporting sightings of stray dogs, public awareness campaigns ought to be stepped up. Furthermore, educational initiatives can promote a more compassionate attitude by debunking myths and misconceptions about stray dogs.
4. Enhanced Collaboration: It is imperative that local communities, animal welfare organizations, and municipal authorities work together. Combining resources, knowledge, and labor can have a synergistic effect that produces solutions that are more successful.
5. Actions Taken by Law: To hold pet owners responsible for their animals, the government ought to investigate the issue and implement strict legislation. Leash laws and the imposition of fines for pet abandonment can serve as disincentives and encourage responsible pet ownership.
6. Participation in Community: Participating local communities in initiatives to control the dog population can result in more acceptable and long-lasting solutions. Official efforts can be supplemented by community-driven programs like neighborhood watch programs for monitoring stray dogs.
Conclusion:
The recent incidents in Banihal and Srinagar highlight the threat posed by stray dogs in Kashmir and call for prompt and comprehensive action. Although steps have been taken, the scope of the issue demands that authorities take a more comprehensive and long-term approach that includes accelerated sterilization programs, better waste management, public awareness campaigns, increased cooperation, legislative measures, and community engagement. The people of Kashmir can only expect to reclaim their public spaces and live without the constant threat of attacks by stray dogs if they put forth a concentrated and comprehensive effort.