BackSCIENCE_HEALTH
3 lakh dog bite cases push Punjab to rein in strays
Punjab recorded over 3.34 lakh dog bite cases in 2025, prompting the state to mount a multi-pronged fight against stray dogs. Local government minister Sanjeev Arora directed rapid action including sterilisation, vaccination, shelter strengthening, waste management, and public awareness, with monitoring and NGO coordination.
Why It Matters
Rabies and other health risks linked to stray dogs pose safety challenges in urban areas. The measures aim to reduce bites and improve public health and animal welfare.
Timeline
2 Events
Directive to tackle stray dogs
May 1, 2026
Local Government Minister Sanjeev Arora directed municipal corporation commissioners and additional deputy commissioners to submit detailed action‑taken reports within seven days. He called the issue a serious public safety and public health concern, noting incidents of dog bites, attacks on children and elderly residents, and aggressive packs in urban areas. He urged immediate, coordinated action and outlined measures to scale up sterilisation, conduct mass vaccination drives, strengthen dog shelters, improve solid waste management, and establish district and city monitoring teams. He also emphasized public awareness campaigns on safe behaviour around stray animals and responsible waste disposal, with strict adherence to animal welfare norms and a war‑footing approach to achieve visible, measurable outcomes, including close coordination with veterinary departments and NGOs.
Record of dog bite cases in 2025
2025
Punjab recorded over 3.34 lakh dog bite cases in 2025, underscoring the growing stray dog population and its impact on public safety and health.