27 injured as stray dog attacks spread panic in Lolab belt

Jahangir Lolabi

Kupwara, May 12: A series of stray dog attacks across multiple villages in Lolab in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district left at least 27 people injured on Tuesday, triggering concern among residents, officials and locals said.

The incidents were reported from Darpora, Lalpora, Hayatpora, Tekipora, Diver and Dardapora, where residents, including children, women and elderly persons, came under attack.

Dardapora reported the highest number of injuries with 12 cases. Takipora and Diver recorded five injuries each. Darpora reported three cases, while Lalpora and Hayatpora reported two cases each.

All injured persons were shifted to Sub District Hospital Sogam, where they received treatment along with anti-rabies vaccination. Medical staff said around 27 dog bite cases were handled during the day, adding that similar cases have been reported repeatedly in recent days from different areas of Lolab.

Residents said stray dogs are increasingly roaming in residential lanes, school routes and marketplaces, creating fear and restricting movement, especially for children. Several parents said students are hesitant to attend school due to repeated incidents.

Locals have urged the administration and concerned departments to take immediate steps for controlling the stray dog population and to ensure safety in affected villages.