Dog Bites Skyrocket: City Sees 82 Cases Daily

The city is experiencing a dramatic rise in dog bite incidents, with over 22,329 cases reported between January and September of this year. This represents a significant 44.6% increase compared to the same period last year, averaging 82 bites daily. The surge is directly linked to the suspension of the district's stray-dog sterilization program, which has halted after sterilizing 2,302 dogs. Authorities are awaiting new tenders, leaving the resumption date uncertain.

Residents are increasingly alarmed by these escalating numbers and several dangerous encounters. These include a recent fatal pitbull attack on a 65-year-old farmer and severe injuries to a three-year-old child from a stray dog. Previous incidents in Mohali and Kharar have seen multiple people bitten by aggressive dogs. Citizens' welfare associations are calling for coordinated efforts with NGOs and volunteers for sterilization and vaccination, alongside establishing helplines and rescue teams.

Suggestions for improved public safety include creating dedicated shelter homes for dogs, deploying medical teams, and launching public awareness campaigns. While Kharar continues a localized sterilization drive, broader control measures are urgently needed. Experts emphasize that sterilization is crucial for managing dog populations and reducing aggressive behaviors, stressing the importance of safe environments and responsible pet ownership to prevent conflicts.