In Amritsar, packs of stray dogs rummaging through piles of garbage and dustbins along roads have become a common and troubling sight. Beyond the unpleasant visual impact, these hungry canines pose a threat to commuters, especially when they feel their territory is being encroached upon.
One of the primary causes for the escalating stray dog population is the poor implementation of sterilization programs. Despite previous attempts by the government to address the issue, the lack of sincerity in executing sterilization efforts has only exacerbated the situation. Local resident Baljit Singh voices his concern, urging the administration to act swiftly. “If the growing population of dogs is controlled, accidents and dog-bite incidents can be prevented,” he said.
Stray dog attacks, especially on children, are particularly common during the winter months when food is scarcer. While animal welfare groups try to alleviate the problem by feeding the dogs, their numbers make it impossible to manage the population effectively.
Around a decade ago, the government launched a scheme to register pet dogs, with the registration fees earmarked for sterilization programs for strays. Unfortunately, due to poor execution, the initiative has failed to yield any significant results.
In addition to the threat to public safety, stray dogs contribute to sanitation problems. Their excrement on the roads adds to the challenge of maintaining a clean and hygienic environment. Some dog owners also let their pets roam freely, further exacerbating the situation by allowing them to defecate in public spaces.
“Though canines are part of the world, the city administration must set clear rules to ensure that others are not inconvenienced,” said Sarika Sharma, a homemaker. She pointed out that in many developed countries, people are responsible for managing their pets in a way that prevents them from causing disruptions in public spaces. “Seeing dog excreta in front of your house is not a pleasant way to start your day,” she added.
Residents have called on the administration to take immediate and effective action by implementing thorough sterilization programs and enforcing responsible pet ownership practices. These steps are necessary to ensure a cleaner, safer, and healthier environment for all citizens.
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