Kandivli residents raise alarm over stray dog attacks in housing complex

Residents show bite marks from an alleged stray dog attack outside the Viceroy Park housing complex in Kandivli East. Pics/By Special Arrangement

Residents of Viceroy Park in Thakur Village, Kandivli East, have alleged that a rise in the number of stray dogs around their housing complex has led to a series of dog bite incidents, with three residents reportedly attacked in July.

The residents claim the dogs began appearing a few months ago after several were allegedly abandoned near the society. They have since formed packs and are frequently seen around the complex, particularly during the early morning and late evening hours. Residents say repeated complaints to the BMC and local representatives have not resulted in any concrete action. The civic body, however, said it would look into the matter.

Serious concerns

According to society secretary Devyani Irani, the dogs now roam inside and around the complex, leaving elders, children and walkers feeling unsafe. "We have written multiple complaints to the BMC, complained on online portals and even written letters to the corporator. But the situation remains unchanged. We are not against animals, but residents, especially senior citizens and children, should not have to live in fear. "Also, there are many outsiders who feed these strays, which is why they do not even change their area," she alleged.

Residents say that they want...

>> Survey of the area
>> Sterilisation and vaccination of stray dogs
>> Action against aggressive dogs as permitted under existing rules
>> Measures to prevent further attacks

BMC speaks

Civic ward office official,
‘We will look into the matter and take necessary actions at the earliest'

July bite tally

3: Residents reportedly bitten this month
Location: Viceroy Park, Thakur Village housing complex in Kandivli East

Residents' allegation
Rise in stray dog population after dogs were allegedly abandoned nearby

Voices from residents

Akzhal Khatri, resident
‘The dog suddenly charged at me and bit my leg. I had to undergo anti-rabies treatment. Ever since then, I am scared to even step out alone'

Umesh Dhayalkar, engineer
‘We are always alert when we step out of the gate. Two-three days back, I was going out when three dogs were chasing a bicycle rider. The rider changed his lane immediately after seeing that he was being chased. And the dogs saw me suddenly. I did not run, and I just stopped where I was because the common fact is that they chase and bite if you run.

But still they attacked me. I took a few steps back, but they still managed to bite me on my left leg. I had to undergo anti-rabies treatment, take injections and stay under observation for four to five hours. I am still recovering. It was completely unprovoked'