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Stray Dog Attack in Hyderabad
Stray Dog Attacks Differently-Abled Boy in Hyderabad’s Kokapet, Sparks Concerns
In a harrowing incident that has reignited concerns over the stray dog menace in Hyderabad, a seven-year-old differently-abled boy was attacked by a stray dog at his residence in Kokapet on Friday, August 9. The boy, who was alone at home and asleep, was targeted by the stray dog that entered the house, leading to severe injuries, particularly to his private parts.
Swift Action by Residents Saves Boy
The attack was only halted when nearby residents, hearing the boy’s cries, rushed to his aid. They managed to chase the dog away, bringing the traumatic event to an end. The boy was immediately taken to a hospital where he received the necessary medical care. As per the latest reports, his condition is stable, but the incident has left the community in shock.
Series of Stray Dog Attacks Raises Alarm
This attack is not an isolated incident in the region. Just a day before, on August 8, three children were bitten by a stray dog while they were sitting outside their house in Yellareddypet Mandal, Telangana. The children, identified as Sahjasra, Brithisha, and Varun, were doing their homework when the dog suddenly attacked them, leaving them with injuries.
In another disturbing event, an 18-month-old toddler named Harinandan was severely injured by a stray dog while playing on a subway near Satavahana University in Karimnagar on Wednesday, August 7. The entire incident was captured on CCTV, showing the dog suddenly jumping on the unsuspecting child, causing him to fall to the ground. The footage has since gone viral on social media, sparking widespread outrage and calls for immediate action.
Growing Concern Over Stray Dog Menace in Hyderabad
The stray dog menace in Hyderabad has reached alarming levels, with reports indicating that around 30,000 people are bitten by stray dogs annually in the city. This translates to an average of 70 to 90 dog bite cases every day. Over the past decade, the city has reported more than three lakh dog bite incidents, making it a significant public health concern.
The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) estimates that there are between 4 to 6 lakh stray dogs in the city. In 2023 alone, 26,349 cases of dog bites were reported, underscoring the severity of the issue. Despite efforts to control the stray dog population through sterilization and other measures, the problem persists, with citizens frequently expressing fear and frustration over the lack of effective solutions.
Community Calls for Action
The recent spate of attacks has led to growing calls for the GHMC and other authorities to take more stringent measures to curb the stray dog population and ensure public safety. Many residents are demanding more frequent sterilization drives, as well as the relocation of aggressive dogs to shelters. There are also suggestions to implement stricter regulations on pet ownership and better management of stray dogs through community involvement.
The incidents have also highlighted the need for increased public awareness about the risks posed by stray dogs, especially in areas where children are vulnerable. Educating the public on how to respond to stray dogs and implementing safety protocols in neighborhoods could help reduce the number of attacks.
Conclusion
The attack on the differently-abled boy in Kokapet is a tragic reminder of the ongoing stray dog crisis in Hyderabad. As the city grapples with this issue, it is imperative for the authorities to take decisive action to prevent such incidents in the future. With thousands of cases reported each year, the need for a comprehensive and humane solution has never been more urgent. The safety of Hyderabad’s residents, particularly its children, must be a top priority as the city seeks to address this growing menace.
