Stray dog menace sparks fear in Jawahar Nagar

Srinagar, Jul 30: A growing stray dog menace has left residents of Srinagar’s upscale Jawahar Nagar area in a state of distress, with the worst-affected zone being the vicinity of the DAV School and its adjoining interiors.
Locals say that packs of stray dogs have overrun the streets, lanes, and bylanes, creating a hostile environment especially for school-going children and the elderly. “It has become impossible to step out early in the morning or late in the evening. School going children are constantly at risk,” a resident said.
The situation has reportedly worsened in recent weeks, with dogs frequently seen fighting, chasing pedestrians, and rummaging through overflowing garbage bins. The absence of an effective and sustained sterilization or relocation drive by municipal authorities has compounded the problem.
Residents have also blamed poor waste management for attracting more strays. “The garbage piles outside homes and commercial spots are never cleared on time. This has become a feeding ground for dogs and is the root cause of the problem,” another local said.
Senior citizens, morning walkers, and cyclists have also expressed concern, stating that dog attacks have become a real threat. “Even during daylight hours, it’s not safe. The barking, chasing, and sudden attacks are frequent now,” said an elderly man living in the area.
Local shopkeepers and vehicle owners complained that the dogs often sleep under parked vehicles or gather around food outlets, creating both hygiene and safety concerns.
The locals appealed to the Srinagar Municipal Corporation and the district administration to immediately intervene by launching a comprehensive dog sterilization, vaccination, and relocation campaign, especially around schools and public parks.
“If the issue continues to be ignored, it may lead to serious incidents, especially involving children,” a group of concerned parents warned. [KNT]