After spike in dog bite cases, SMC begins operation to catch ferocious strays
Shimla, Nov 10,
Alarmed by a sudden surge in stray dog bite incidents, the Shimla Municipal Corporation (SMC) has swung into action, launching a citywide drive to catch and shelter aggressive canines after 36 people were bitten in a single day across different localities.
The unprecedented number of cases has sparked public concern and reignited debates over urban animal management in the hill capital, where stray dog populations have grown steadily over the years.
Municipal Commissioner Bhupinder Atri, speaking about it confirmed that a dedicated SMC team has been deployed to trace and capture dogs identified as aggressive or repeatedly involved in attacks.
“We estimate that around 14 to 15 dogs are responsible for most of the recent bite cases. A special operation has been launched to catch and isolate these animals,” Atri said, adding that the campaign began early Friday morning.
So far, the SMC has vaccinated nearly 1,600 stray dogs against rabies, tagging each with a unique barcode for record-keeping and monitoring. Officials are now conducting ward-wise surveys to identify and register the remaining animals.
The corporation has also prepared modern dog shelters on the city’s outskirts to temporarily house the captured dogs. These facilities are equipped with safe enclosures, feeding areas, and space for veterinary care — part of an initiative to combine safety with humane management.
Atri acknowledged that the delay in appointing a Block Public Health Officer (BPHO) had momentarily disrupted animal vaccination and surveillance activities, possibly contributing to the spike in bite incidents. “With the new officer expected to join soon, we are hopeful of restoring regular monitoring,” he added.
While the SMC has appealed to residents to stay calm and cooperate with its teams during the ongoing drive, the civic body is also exploring incentives for adoption of sterilized dogs, including waivers in garbage collection bills.
“Despite numerous citizen complaints about stray dogs, very few animal lovers have come forward to adopt them,” Atri remarked. “We want to encourage responsible adoption and reduce the number of dogs on the streets in a humane way.”
Officials said the operation will continue until all identified ferocious dogs are safely relocated. The municipal team has also urged residents to report any aggressive animals through ward offices or the SMC helpline.
As the hill town grapples with the growing menace, the civic administration hopes that coordinated efforts between residents and authorities can restore a sense of safety on Shimla’s streets.
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