Restore sense of safety on streets

Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, has been witnessing a growing and alarming issue that residents face daily, i.e. the unchecked rise in the population of stray dogs. What was once a manageable concern has now turned into a full-blown crisis. The streets of Srinagar, especially during early mornings and late evenings, are becoming increasingly unsafe for pedestrians, particularly children, women and the elderly. Fear has crept into the everyday lives of residents, many of whom now avoid venturing out after dark due to the threat posed by aggressive dog packs. Numerous incidents of dog bites have been reported across the city, some resulting in serious injuries and psychological trauma. While animal welfare is important, public safety cannot be compromised. The balance has tipped too far and it is the people who are paying the price. Authorities can no longer afford to delay action. The issue demands a multi-pronged, humane and sustained strategy. Sterilization drives must be intensified, dog shelters expanded and waste management, a key factor attracting strays overhauled. Public awareness campaigns should also be launched to promote responsible feeding practices and community involvement. The people of Srinagar deserve to walk their streets without fear. This is not just a civic issue; it is a question of public health, urban planning, and basic dignity. The longer this is ignored, the deeper the crisis will become. It is time for the administration to act decisively and restore a sense of safety in the city. Srinagar must be a city where both people and animals coexist but not at the cost of fear and inaction.