The stray dog menace has become a major concern in North Paravur, with opposition councillors alleging a complete failure by municipal authorities to effectively implement the animal birth control (ABC) programme. The opposition in the local body has demanded urgent action after three people were bitten by stray dogs within the municipality limits on Wednesday alone.
Details of the Attack
According to sources, the dog first attacked a roadside vendor and then proceeded to bite a passerby and a mechanic who was repairing a damaged truck parked along the roadside. The dog later ran towards the Chittattukara panchayat area and attacked other stray dogs in the vicinity, raising suspicion of rabies infection. Soon after, the dog was hit by a vehicle and died on the spot. The dead dog was taken to the Government Veterinary Hospital in Mannuthy on Thursday to confirm whether it was infected with rabies.
Criticism of Municipal Efforts
Former councillor and CPM area secretary in North Paravur, T V Nidhin, said that vaccination drives conducted by the previous council were not effective. He noted that the municipality had ensured ABC measures in the past, but such steps have not been taken for the past five years. Councillors also pointed out that no dedicated dog shelter has been constructed so far, worsening the situation.
Leader of the opposition, C A Rajeev, stated that indiscriminate feeding of stray dogs by certain individuals has contributed to the rising number of incidents. He added that stray dogs are frequently seen in and around hospitals and school premises, posing a serious threat to residents, especially children.
Demands for Action
Opposition councillors blamed unscientific waste collection and disposal practices for attracting stray dogs and exacerbating the problem. They have demanded urgent and coordinated action from the municipality to curb the menace and ensure public safety. The incident has highlighted the need for effective implementation of ABC programmes, construction of dog shelters, and proper waste management to address the stray dog issue in North Paravur.
