Srinagar, Jan 27: The Maisuma area, located in the heart of Srinagar, a city striving to become a Smart City, is grappling with a pressing issue that threatens the safety and well-being of its residents – the stray dog problem. The streets of Maisuma are overrun with stray dogs, which roam freely, causing fear and anxiety among the locals. These dogs have become a menace, entering homes and biting people, leaving many injured and traumatised. They even enter personal rooms of people.
The situation has become so dire that residents are afraid to step out of their homes and afraid in even their homes too, especially during dawn and dusk when the dogs are most active. The stray dogs have also taken over public spaces, making it difficult for people to move around freely. Despite efforts by the local authorities to sterilise and vaccinate the dogs, the problem persists, and the residents are at their wit’s end. The stray dog problem in Maisuma is not only a nuisance but also a serious health hazard, as the dogs can transmit diseases like rabies.
The residents of Maisuma are demanding that the authorities take immediate action to address the issue. They are calling for a comprehensive plan to capture, sterilize, and rehabilitate the stray dogs, as well as to create awareness among the public about the importance of animal welfare and responsible pet ownership. The Smart City initiative in Srinagar aims to create a livable and sustainable urban environment, but the stray dog problem in Maisuma is a stark reminder that there is still much work to be done to achieve this goal.
