Terror of Stray Dogs in the Capital Increases

Rising dog bite cases in Ranchi spark safety concerns(vajiramandravi.com)

The menace of stray dogs in the capital has escalated. Due to these dogs, it has become difficult for young children to go to school and even play in the streets. In several parts of the city, stray dogs have injured small children. Many victims of dog bites are reaching Sadar Hospital in such critical condition that they have to be admitted to daycare for treatment.

The seriousness of the situation can be understood from the fact that in the past month alone, 6,748 people have received anti-rabies injections at the hospital, whereas, in the same period in 2022, approximately 3,338 people sought treatment at Sadar Hospital. In just two years, dog bite incidents have increased by 3,410 cases. This does not include those receiving treatment at private hospitals. Despite this alarming rise, the Ranchi Municipal Corporation has not taken any steps to control the stray dog population.

On Monday alone, 539 people took anti-rabies injections, out of which 85 people received the shot for the first time.

Stray Dogs Creating Panic, Daily Cases at Sadar Hospital

• 539 people received anti-rabies injections in a single day; 85 were first-time recipients.
• In the past month, 6,748 people received anti-rabies injections.
• Dog bite cases have increased significantly over the last two years.

Even Pet Lovers Are Victims of Stray Dogs

Nitish, a young boy from Morhabadi, was playing in front of his house when a pack of dogs attacked him, injuring his hand. In Lalpur, Vinay Prasad was out on a walk with his pet dog when stray dogs attacked him, leaving him injured.

Similarly, Suman Khalkho became the victim of an attack by a pet cat. Mantu Kumar, a security guard at Shri Balaji Apartment on Deepatoli Road No. 5, stated that due to the increasing number of stray dogs, they are forced to keep the main gate closed at all times.

These stray dogs are becoming increasingly aggressive. Many of them have severe injuries or skin diseases, making the situation even more dangerous.

Authorities Must Take Complaints Seriously

There is no proper system in place to ensure the safety of citizens from stray dogs in the city. The municipal authorities must take the rising complaints about stray dog terror seriously.

Fear Among Residents

• “I fear for my safety when going to work or returning home late at night. My leg was severely injured.”
  — Ashish Sahu, Sugni, Booty Mor
• “Many times, I have had to turn back midway due to fear of stray dogs. They often start chasing people. Despite my attempts to escape, a dog bit my fingers.”
  — Set Bara, Dangratoli

Anti-Rabies Clinic Ensures Vaccine Availability

Dr. Bimlesh Singh, Deputy Superintendent of Sadar Hospital, assured that an adequate stock of anti-rabies vaccines is available. Over 100 people are being treated daily. Children in ICU are being given injections only after consultation with doctors.

Over 50,000 Pet Dogs, but Only 130 Registered

Ranchi has more than 50,000 pet dogs, yet only 130 dogs are officially registered with the municipal corporation. Many pet owners are keeping dogs without completing the necessary registration.

Dog Registration Costs ₹200

The Ranchi Municipal Corporation charges a registration fee of ₹200 per pet dog. This fee covers the registration process as well as an anti-rabies vaccination for the pet.

Over 1.10 Lakh Dogs Sterilized in 15 Years

To control the stray dog population, Hope & Animal Welfare Organization has conducted sterilization procedures on over 1.10 lakh dogs in the past 15 years. However, the number of stray dogs in the city continues to rise.