Dog Menace Spirals Out of Control on Hazratbal–Kashmir University Stretch, Locals Demand Urgent Action

Srinagar, Oct 15, KNT: A growing stray dog menace along the Hazratbal–Kashmir University road has sparked alarm among locals and morning walkers, who say the stretch has turned into a zone of constant fear due to the unchecked rise in the canine population. The situation, they warn, is fast spiralling into a public safety crisis amid the continued inaction of the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC).

Locals say the number of stray dogs has reached “hundreds,” making early morning walks, school commutes, and even routine travel hazardous. The problem, they allege, is being aggravated by the accumulation of garbage and uncovered dustbins, which have become a regular sight along the busy road.

Recently, a lady was bitten by a stray dog during her morning walk. The incident, which locals describe as both “tragic and predictable,” has renewed anger and underscored what many see as administrative apathy. “People have been complaining for months, but the authorities seem to wake up only after an incident occurs,” Fayaz Ahmed, a local told the news agency Kashmir News Trust.

“The SMC’s failure to ensure daily garbage clearance and cover open bins has made the situation intolerable,” he added. “Hazratbal is a religious and educational hub visited by hundreds daily. Allowing such conditions is a civic failure.”

Locals demanded an immediate response from the SMC, including large-scale sterilization drives, systematic garbage removal, and deployment of dog control teams to ensure safety along the stretch. They also urged civic authorities to coordinate with animal welfare organizations to address the issue humanely but effectively.

“The administration must act now before someone loses their life,” said a local teacher. “People cannot live in fear on one of Srinagar’s most prominent roads.” [KNT]