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Haldwani: As Supreme Court recently has taken a suo motu cognizance of the increasing number of stray dogs biting countrywide, Uttarakhand’s Haldwani in Nainital district is also facing a similar menace.
The streets of Haldwani in Uttarakhand are witnessing a disturbing surge in stray dog attacks, with over 4,269 bite cases reported in July alone. According to the news report published in Hindustan daily, this marks a 24% increase compared to June, when 3,436 people received anti-rabies injections following bites from dogs, cats, or monkeys—90% of which were dog-related.
Sparked widespread concern among residents
The spike in cases has sparked widespread concern among residents, especially after incidents involving children and the elderly. On July 18, a toddler from Haripur village was mauled by a pack of stray dogs, leaving him seriously injured. Locals say walking on certain streets has become risky, with dog packs roaming freely and attacking people. Dr. K.S. Dattal, PMS at Haldwani Base Hospital, confirmed the alarming rise in rabies vaccinations. “We’re seeing a sharp increase in dog bite cases. Most victims are pedestrians, schoolchildren, and morning walkers,” he said.
Alarming rise in cases in Nainital too
In Nainital, the situation is similarly grim. From January to July, 1,426 people received rabies shots, with 1,097 cases linked to dog bites. The B.D. Pandey District Hospital reports four to five new bite cases daily, while 169 people have already sought treatment in July alone. On July 18, three people—including a tourist—were bitten by stray dogs in the city. All three victims visited BD Pandey Hospital, where they were administered anti-rabies vaccines. Hospital PMS Dr. T.K. Tamta confirmed that all three were given anti-rabies shots.
Haldwani Municipal Corporation claims to have sterilized 16,597 stray dogs so far
Despite ongoing sterilization efforts under the Animal Birth Control (ABC) program, the problem persists. Haldwani Municipal Corporation claims to have sterilized 16,597 stray dogs so far, with a target of 20,000. However, officials admit that the sheer number of dogs and their rapid reproduction rate make containment difficult.
Supreme Court has taken suo motu cognizance of the rising rabies cases nationwide
The Supreme Court has also taken note of the rising rabies cases nationwide, calling media reports of fatal dog attacks “deeply disturbing.” The court has urged civic bodies to intensify sterilization and vaccination drives while ensuring humane treatment of animals.
Meanwhile, residents are demanding stricter enforcement and safer public spaces. “We’re afraid to let our children walk to school,” said a local shopkeeper. “The authorities need to act before someone loses their life.” Moreover, people ask for sterilization, vaccination, public awareness, and responsible pet ownership to restore safety on the city’s streets.
