A growing menace of aggressive stray dogs has put residents of Bahraich on high alert after a series of attacks left one child dead and 14 others injured over the past 10 days. Authorities have launched awareness campaigns and sterilization drives to curb the rising threat.
The district, already troubled by past incidents of wolf attacks in Mahsi and leopard and elephant threats in Katarniaghat, is now facing a new challenge as stray dog attacks intensify. The administration has resorted to public announcements via loudspeakers in affected villages, including Shivpur and Mahsi blocks, urging residents to carry sticks when stepping out in the evening.
Authorities Take Action
District Magistrate (DM) Monika Rani has issued an advisory warning parents against letting children go out alone. She has also instructed officials to take strict measures to prevent further incidents, warning of punitive action if attacks continue in their jurisdictions.
An extensive awareness campaign is currently underway across 192 villages to educate residents about the threat. Teams from various departments, including police, veterinary, and revenue officials, are working together to control the situation.
Horrific Fatal Attack
The most severe attack occurred on February 24 in the Shivpur block’s Khairighat area. Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) Dr. Rajesh Upadhyay reported that 12-year-old Pinki from Matera Kala village was mauled to death by a pack of stray dogs while cutting fodder in the fields after school. Villagers later found her severely mutilated body.
The worst-affected regions, including Khairighat and Shivpur Bazar in Shivpur block and Sikandarpur in Mahsi block, have seen a total of 14 dog attack cases in the past 10 days. All victims are receiving treatment in government hospitals.
Vaccination and Sterilization Drive
Authorities have ramped up efforts to prevent further attacks. Over 6,000 pets and stray animals have been vaccinated against rabies, and 92 stray dogs have been sterilized so far, as neutering is known to reduce aggression in dogs. Additionally, a rabid dog was found dead in Khairighat, confirming rabies among the stray population.
The sterilization drive is ongoing, and authorities have also deployed e-rickshaws equipped with loudspeakers to spread awareness in severely affected areas. Meanwhile, stray dogs have also attacked livestock, injuring 81 animals, who are currently receiving treatment.
Officials Issue Warnings and Guidelines
DM Monika Rani held a high-level meeting on Wednesday to review the situation and instructed municipal and veterinary officials to take immediate action. She warned that repeated incidents would lead to strict punitive measures against negligent authorities.
A survey of local health center data has identified high-risk areas where targeted awareness campaigns are being conducted. Officials are also emphasizing proper waste management to prevent stray dogs from scavenging for food, a major factor contributing to their aggression.
Dr. Upadhyay advised residents to stay cautious, as this is the breeding season for dogs, which naturally makes them more aggressive. He also noted that a dog’s territorial instincts could be triggered by unfamiliar scents on children, potentially provoking attacks.
Precautionary Measures for Residents
Authorities have urged residents to adopt safety measures, including:
- Keeping children away from stray dogs.
- Properly disposing of animal carcasses to prevent scavenging.
- Carrying sticks when going out in the evening.
- Reporting aggressive dogs or suspicious incidents to officials immediately.
With these measures in place, authorities hope to curb the rising threat of stray dog attacks and ensure the safety of Bahraich’s residents.
Sources By Agencies