Shimla MC seeks state help to tackle rising dog menace

In a bid to tackle the growing stray dog menace in Shimla, the Municipal Corporation (MC) has urged the state government to provide veterinary doctors for dog sterilisation. Mayor Surender Chauhan recently met Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to discuss ongoing development projects and requested support in controlling the stray dog population.

During the MC’s recent general house meeting, the Mayor revealed that sterilisation efforts have stalled for months due to the absence of doctors. To address the issue, the corporation is now planning to outsource the sterilisation process. Talks with private agencies have already been held, and interested parties have shown willingness to take up the task.

Mayor Chauhan highlighted that stray dogs have become a serious problem across the town, causing fear and inconvenience among residents. Citizens frequently report the presence of dog packs in public areas such as The Mall, Sanjauli, and Chotta Shimla. These dogs often chase, bite, or attack passersby, raising safety concerns, especially for children and the elderly.

Councillors have also voiced dissatisfaction with the current measures and called for swift, effective action. Supporting their concerns, data from Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital shows a steady rise in dog bite cases. In 2024, the hospital recorded 1,547 dog bite cases, including 777 caused by stray dogs. In comparison, 1,497 and 1,636 cases were reported in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

With the problem escalating, the Municipal Corporation is pushing for immediate intervention and resources to control the stray dog population and ensure public safety.

Himachal Tribune