Pune: PMC Unveils Comprehensive Plan to Tackle Escalating Stray Dog Attacks
Pune, 27th October 2023: The issue of stray dogs is on the rise in the city, affecting women, children, senior citizens, and two-wheeler riders. Fortunately, there have been no reported fatalities due to rabies, as confirmed by the civic administration.
In response to this alarming situation, Pune’s Municipal Commissioner, Vikram Kumar, convened a review meeting today to address the issue. Joining him were Additional Commissioner Ravindra Binwade, Dr. Bhagwan Pawar, Veterinary Officer, and Sarika Funde.
A census conducted in 2018 revealed 315,000 registered dogs. However, in the most recent 2023 census, the number has decreased to 179,940. This decline is attributed to the successful implementation of the PMC’s sterilization program. Nonetheless, the menace of stray dogs continues to pose a significant problem, with many people sustaining injuries due to dog attacks occurring both during the day and at night. The data suggests a persistent trend in these incidents since 2021.
During the review meeting, Municipal Commissioner Vikram Kumar emphasized the need to expedite the sterilization drive to curb the issue. It was proposed to initiate a tender process for appointing two additional institutions for this purpose. Furthermore, institutions will be engaged to care for injured and unwell dogs. The city authorities are also planning to collect information on pet dogs and provide affordable vaccination services. This proactive approach aims to effectively control the spread of rabies among dogs.
“In the review meeting, the commissioner suggested the appointment of institutions to accelerate the sterilization of stray dogs and provide care for sick dogs,” stated Ravindra Binwade, Additional Commissioner of the Municipal Corporation.
Notably, there have been no rabies-related deaths reported within the Pune Municipal Corporation limits between 2021 and August 2023. However, the authorities have confirmed 52 rabies-related fatalities among individuals who sought treatment in Pune after being bitten by dogs outside the municipal limits.
Incident statistics of dog bites in recent years are as follows:
– 2021: 12,024 incidents
– 2022: 16,569 incidents
– As of August 2023: 14,072 incidents
Join Punekar News Whatsapp Group, Telegram, Instagram And Twitter For Regular Update about Pune City And Pimpri-Chinchwad
