Sambalpur: Stray Dog Crisis Worsens in Sambalpur; Locals Demand Full Activation of Burla Sterilization Center
Sambalpur: The number of stray dogs in Sambalpur and Burla has increased dramatically, leaving residents fearful of frequent dog attacks, some of which have been fatal. The administration has not made any significant effort to reduce the stray dog population, despite growing concern. In response to this pressing issue, local intellectuals have demanded that the administration immediately activate the existing dog sterilization center in Burla to full capacity.
Stray Dogs Cause Traffic Disruptions and Accidents
Stray dogs and cattle roaming the streets have become a common sight, causing traffic disruptions and accidents. These animals often lie on roads, obstructing traffic and leading to accidents where both the animals and drivers lose their lives. Yet, the administration has not addressed the issue as urgently as it requires.
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Underutilized Sterilization Center: A Missed Opportunity
The municipal corporation established a dog sterilization center in Burla, but it is largely underutilized. Since its inception in 2014-15, the center has sterilized approximately 700 dogs—a small fraction of the estimated 30,000 dogs in Sambalpur district. The Sambalpur Municipal Corporation’s dedicated dog-catching vehicle is no longer in good working order.
Potential Crisis Ahead: Stray Dog Population Could Double
According to estimates, if even a small percentage of the puppies born during the current breeding season survive, the stray dog population could double to 60,000 within a year. With dog birth rates outpacing human birth rates, the human population may face a serious crisis. As a result, there is growing demand to fully operationalize the sterilization center and significantly increase the number of sterilizations in order to reduce the stray dog population effectively.
