Home / Disasters and Accidents / Boy, 9, Mauled By Stray Dog in Vijayawada
Boy, 9, Mauled By Stray Dog in Vijayawada
25 Feb
Summary
- Nine-year-old boy severely injured by street dog bite on face.
- CCTV captured the boy falling from his bicycle before the attack.
- Municipal efforts include 286 feeding zones and increased dog catching.
A nine-year-old boy, Rachakonda Rishi, suffered serious facial injuries when a street dog bit him in Vijayawada on Tuesday, February 24. The attack followed an incident where the child lost balance and fell from his bicycle, as captured by CCTV. He was rushed to the Government General Hospital and required observation.
This event highlights a growing concern, with other residents reporting recent dog bites involving children. In response to Supreme Court directives, the Vijayawada Municipal Corporation (VMC) has established 286 dog feeding zones and increased dog catching operations. Sterilization rates have also risen, with 40-50 dogs sterilized daily compared to 20-30 previously.
The VMC stated the dog involved in the recent attack had been sterilized and vaccinated. Authorities are continuing to sterilize and vaccinate other dogs in the area. The city estimates a stray dog population of 35,000-40,000, with 18,000 already sterilized. A budget of ₹5 crore has been proposed for animal birth control programs and shelters.
However, animal welfare groups advocate for humane approaches, emphasizing continuous sterilization and vaccination over relocation, which they believe can lead to infections and territorial conflicts. They urge the VMC to focus on these humane methods to ensure public safety and animal welfare.
