-SATISH HANDA

Terror exists among residents of twin city Ambala due to population of 17000 stray dogs according to a survey conducted by Municipal Corporation Ambala (MCA) about three years ago. In the year 2010 MCA approved a project for sterility of all male dogs in twin city enabling to stop further growth of stray dogs but the same remained hanging from one table to another without action for seven years, since it was not possible to arrange funds worth crores of rupees required for implementation of this project by MCA already facing severe financial crisis.

According to a survey, there are nearly 10000 stray dogs in Ambala City and nearly 7000 stray dogs in Ambala Cantt posing a threat to the residents in thickly populated residential areas, mostly children, females and old-age persons in the town. Large numbers of cases of attack, injuring people in the town are reported every day. According to MCA officers, proposal to catch stray dogs for sterility has been finalized and tenders for the same would be invited shortly. Information reveals, captured stray dogs would be kept at Nasirpur slaughter house Ambala City for three days for sterility under the supervision of doctors and expenses on each stray dog are likely to incur Rs 4000.

According to Health Department information, nearly 50 persons are attacked, injured by stray dogs every day in twin city Ambala, of them nearly 35 dog bite victims are brought to civil hospital Ambala City and nearly 30 victims brought to civil hospital Ambala Cantt for anti-rabies vaccination. Information reveals between 15-20 stray dog victims are brought to private hospitals and clinics for treatment daily. Dr Sushil MCA Commissioner assures residents relief in this regard shortly. Municipal Committee Secretary Rajesh Kumar said that budget worth Rs 4 crore required for implementation of this project in Ambala Cantt likely to have nearly 4000 male dogs but they are facing acute shortage of funds at present.