Stray dogs kill 43 sheep in Ganderbal, nomadic family suffers heavy loss

Ganderbal, May 5: A nomadic family suffered major livestock losses after stray dogs attacked their herd in the Gund area of central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district on Tuesday, killing dozens of sheep and goats and injuring several others.
The attack occurred in the Gund Nallah area, where a herd belonging to Nazir Ahmad Karkat, son of Mahmood Barkat, a resident of Rajouri, was targeted. Out of 47 animals, 43 were killed, including 26 goats and 17 sheep, while six others were left severely injured.
The incident highlights growing concerns over the unchecked rise of stray dogs in the upper reaches of Ganderbal, particularly in Gund and adjoining areas, where nomadic families rely heavily on livestock for their livelihood.
Station House Officer Gund, Rayees Ahmad, reached the spot along with his team soon after receiving information about the attack. Officials assessed the situation at the site, where carcasses of animals were found scattered across the area.
Locals said that the increasing presence of stray dogs has created fear among locals, with vulnerable groups such as women, children, and elderly persons facing difficulty in moving outdoors.
They said such incidents are becoming more frequent, raising concerns about both livelihood losses and public safety in the region.
Locals have urged the administration to take immediate and effective measures to control the stray dog population and prevent further attacks. [KNT]