Stray dog menace escalates in Rourkela; over 2,600 bites reported in 90 days

Rourkela city in Odisha is currently grappling with a severe stray dog menace, with more than 5,000 dogs reportedly roaming across the urban area. The situation has raised serious public concern as nearly 2,600 people have been bitten by stray dogs in the last 90 days alone. Residents allege that stray dogs are seen in large numbers across streets, lanes, and even crowded public places. Schools, colleges, hospitals, and marketplaces are increasingly affected, with dogs frequently roaming these areas. From school-going children to elderly morning walkers, people across age groups are reportedly being chased and attacked by stray dogs. Even cyclists and motorcyclists are not spared, with several incidents leading to minor accidents during attempts to escape dog attacks. On average, 20 to 30 dog bite cases are being reported daily, prompting authorities at Rourkela Government Hospital (RGH) to ensure an adequate stock of anti-rabies vaccines. The Deputy Superintendent of RGH has confirmed that sufficient injections are being maintained due to the rising number of cases. "The number of stray dogs in Rourkela has increased significantly, and they are attacking people and children while they are passing on roads," said Ranu Mohapatra, a resident in Rourkela. "As many as 2,600 people bitten by stray dogs in the last 90 days have visited the hospital. On average, around 20–30 people bitten by stray dogs visit the hospital on a daily basis. We have kept an adequate stock of anti-rabies vaccines in the hospital," said RGH Deputy Superintendent Pandit Sahu. As the number of dog bite incidents continues to rise, controlling the stray dog population has become a major challenge. Local intellectuals and residents have urged the government to take urgent steps for population control and better management of stray animals. Also Read: Stray dog threat: Odisha govt orders fencing, gates in all Anganwadi centres by Dec 31 Meanwhile, the city’s dog sterilisation centre has remained non-functional for the past three years. Although the facility is equipped with infrastructure for sterilisation, housing, feeding, and vaccination of dogs, it has not been operational, contributing to the unchecked rise in the stray dog population. Officials from the Rourkela Municipal Corporation (RMC) have stated that necessary steps will be taken soon to address the issue.  "I request the government to resume the vaccination of stray dogs as soon as possible to ensure the safety of residents," said Amrita Nilam, a resident in Rourkela. "As per the recent guidelines of the Supreme Court, rehabilitation centres for stray dogs will be built, and other necessary measures will be taken as soon as possible. A survey is currently being conducted on the status of stray dogs and related complaints," said RMC Commissioner Dheenah Dastageer, IAS.