Chennai:
People living in Chennai’s suburbs like Tambaram, Pallavaram, Avadi, Mogappair, Anna Nagar, and Perungalathur are facing serious problems because of stray dogs. The number of dogs on the streets has increased, and many residents say they are scared to walk outside, especially early in the morning or at night.
Residents report that dogs often chase school children and two-wheeler riders. In some areas, there have been cases of people being bitten. A recent incident in Velachery saw a baby and two others attacked by a stray dog, causing panic among locals.
Hospitals in the suburbs have also recorded more dog bite cases in recent months. People are asking the government to take quick action before the situation gets worse.
The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) is running an Animal Birth Control (ABC) program, where stray dogs are caught, sterilised, vaccinated, and then released back. But many say the programme is too slow, and not enough dogs are being sterilised.
Some ABC centres have also stopped surgeries due to maintenance issues. Officials say they are planning to open more centres soon and increase the number of sterilisation operations.
Animal experts say that killing stray dogs is not a solution. They suggest better sterilisation drives, more vaccination, and public awareness to manage the situation. People are also being advised not to feed dogs in public places, as this can increase aggression and dog population.
Until strong steps are taken, residents fear the stray dog menace will continue to grow.