Srinagar, Aug 26 (JKNS): Residents of Gurubazar in Srinagar are reeling under a growing stray dog menace, with frequent attacks sparking panic among locals. Bollywood artist and Congress leader Er Danish Reshi on Monday issued a sharp rebuke to Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), accusing it of gross failure in addressing what he termed a “public health emergency.”
Taking to social media, Reshi wrote, “RAGE IN GURUBAZAR, SRINAGAR! Ferocious stray dogs are mauling our kids, women, and elderly, spreading deadly diseases. Our city is a warzone of fear. @SMC_24x7, WAKE UP AND ACT IMMEDIATELY TO END THIS HORROR!”
Speaking to reporters, Reshi said the situation was deteriorating fast not only in Gurubazar but also in areas like Humhama, Chanapora, and Nowpora Safakadal. “Our children can’t walk to school without fear of being chased or bitten. Elderly residents are scared to step out for evening prayers. This is not just a civic issue—it’s a public health emergency,” he remarked.
Residents echoed his concerns. Aijaz Ahmad, a local, told JKNS, “My daughter was chased by a pack of dogs last week—she is too scared to leave the house now.” Gulzar Ahmad from Karfali Mohalla said, “The dogs have become more aggressive, and vulnerable groups are most at risk.”
According to figures cited by residents, Srinagar witnesses over 6,000 dog bite cases annually, with the threat of rabies adding to the fear. Reports indicate sterilization of dogs has been stalled throughout 2025 due to lapsed contracts and bureaucratic hurdles, while poor waste management has worsened the situation. An SMC official, requesting anonymity, admitted that “sterilization efforts have been hampered due to tender delays and regulatory hurdles.”
Reshi urged the administration to restart sterilization drives, vaccinate strays, and clean garbage dumps. “This is not about harming animals but protecting both humans and dogs. Humane solutions must be implemented immediately,” he said, calling on the J&K administration to prioritize funding for Animal Birth Control (ABC) programs and establish more sterilization centers.
As outrage grows, locals say Reshi’s intervention has given them hope. “We need leaders like Er Danish Reshi to hold authorities accountable. Our city cannot live under this shadow of fear any longer,” said Shabnam Bhat, a resident of Gurubazar.
Reshi has warned that he will escalate the matter to higher authorities if SMC fails to act promptly. “This is a matter of life and death. Srinagar deserves safety, and we will not rest until this horror ends,” he said.
With the stray dog menace tightening its grip on Srinagar, residents are now waiting to see whether the civic body will respond with concrete measures. (JKNS)
