The menace of stray dogs in the city continues to worsen, with nearly 37,800 dog bite cases reported over the past four years, raising serious concerns over public safety and the effectiveness of civic measures. On average, around 2,000 citizens fall victim to dog bites every month, according to official data.Figures reveal that in 2022, 8,357 cases of dog bites were reported, followed by 9,910 in 2023, 9,421 in 2024, and 10,044 cases in 2025, indicating a steady rise.
Despite the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) spending crores annually on stray dog control measures, the number of incidents has not declined.Civic records show that the stray dog population in the city has also surged. While around 8,000 stray dogs were recorded in 2018–19, the number has now crossed one lakh, reflecting a sharp increase over the years. Citizens have expressed anger over the failure to effectively control the situation.
The NMC’s Animal Husbandry Department undertakes sterilisation drives for stray dogs, with each surgery costing approximately ₹1,600. However, despite spending lakhs annually on such programmes, the stray dog population continues to grow, pointing towards gaps in implementation.Dog bite incidents are being reported from residential areas, roads, and marketplaces, with packs of stray dogs often chasing pedestrians and motorists, especially during night hours. This has increased the risk of accidents and created panic among residents.
Experts attribute the rising stray dog population to improper waste disposal and easy availability of food. Meat shops, street food vendors, and open dumping of leftover food in several localities have contributed significantly to the problem.Citizens have alleged that complaints filed through helplines or directly with civic authorities often go unaddressed, and there is a lack of prompt action.
The situation has led to growing demands for stricter implementation of sterilisation drives, better waste management, and a comprehensive policy to tackle the stray dog issue effectively.With public safety at stake, residents have urged the administration to take immediate and concrete steps to control the rising stray dog population and prevent further incidents.
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