‘CM Stalin must intervene to check stray dog menace’
People riding two-wheelers, pedestrians, especially children, women, and the elderly, were becoming victims of accidents and dog bites
MADURAI: The menace caused by stray dogs has been escalating across Tamil Nadu in recent times, posing a threat to the public. The issue has become alarming, and it has reached a stage impossible to ignore.
People riding two-wheelers, pedestrians, especially children, women, and the elderly, were becoming victims of accidents and dog bites.
Citing these, S Rethinavelu, president, Agri and All Trade Chamber, Madurai, has sought the immediate intervention of Chief Minister MK Stalin to take permanent and effective action to ensure public safety and protect them from the menace of stray dogs for ease of living.
Tragically, deaths have also occurred due to rabies. Even those who survive dog bites continue to suffer long-term consequences. Stray dogs afflicted with skin diseases and mange, as well as rabies-affected and aggressive dogs, were seen roaming the streets in large groups all over the places where garbage and food waste are strewn around.
“These dogs attack people in groups. Parents are afraid to let their children walk to school, to nearby shops, or play outside. Tourists, especially foreigners in distinctive attire, often flee in panic when chased by stray dogs,” he said on Friday.
Incidents of dog bites, fatalities due to rabies and accidents caused by chasing dogs keep recurring. Often, rabies vaccines are not effective, leading to deaths. The actual public distress caused by stray dogs is far worse.
Although sterilisation procedures could somewhat reduce the stray dog population, releasing them back in the same place of capture did not solve the threat of attacks and bites.
Referring to data, he said Madurai Corporation has officially stated that over 38,000 stray dogs are roaming in the city. As per the data provided by the Directorate of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, in 2024, 4.8 lakh cases of dog bites and 47 deaths were reported in Tamil Nadu. These numbers are deeply concerning.
The Chief Minister’s announcement to set up 72 homes with veterinary facilities to house abandoned, sick, injured, elderly and disabled dogs is a comforting step. Hence, he urged the government to immediately capture all stray dogs across the state and house them permanently in these homes.
By making Tamil Nadu a pioneer state where stray dogs no longer roam in the streets, the people would experience great relief and happiness. Such a move would also boost tourism, commercial activities and set an exemplary model for other states facing a similar menace.
