Stray Dog Crisis Deepens in Tambaram, Chennai, Defying Supreme Court Directive
In Tambaram, a suburb of Chennai, the persistent menace of aggressive stray dogs continues unabated, despite a clear order from the Supreme Court issued last November. The directive mandated the isolation of aggressive dogs from municipal corporation limits and the removal of strays from public spaces, yet residents report ongoing incidents and poor enforcement by local authorities.
Alarming Statistics Highlight Growing Problem
A survey conducted by the Tambaram corporation last year identified approximately 46,000 stray dogs across five zones. Officials now estimate this number has surged to at least 52,000, attributing the increase partly to the movement of dogs between Tambaram, neighboring panchayats, and Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) limits. This rise correlates with a spike in dog bite incidents, as noted by officials at Chromepet Government Hospital, where nearly 400 cases were recorded over the past three months. At least 300 patients have completed the three-dose anti-rabies vaccination course, underscoring the severity of the issue.
Worst-Affected Localities and Resident Concerns
Several areas, including East Tambaram, Selaiyur, Camp Road, Chitlapakkam, and Sembakkam, are among the most severely impacted. Residents in these localities estimate that more than 500 aggressive strays roam freely, often chasing motorists and pedestrians, leading to injuries and fear. V Saritha, secretary of the Ganesh Nagar Residents' Welfare Association, voiced frustration, stating, "In East Tambaram alone, there are many aggressive dogs that chase and bite motorists every day. Corporation officials captured at least 100 such dogs in January, but all have been released back into the same areas. At the very least, aggressive dogs should be isolated and monitored."
Corporation Efforts and Criticisms
The Tambaram corporation currently operates three animal birth control (ABC) centers in Pallavaram, Perungalathur, and Thiruneermalai, sterilizing around 600 to 700 dogs monthly, according to Commissioner S Balachander. Additionally, isolation centers for aggressive and diseased dogs have been established in West Tambaram, with a similar facility in East Tambaram nearing completion. However, residents argue these measures are insufficient. David Manohar, a social activist and Pallavaram resident, highlighted gaps in post-bite treatment, citing an RTI report that revealed 6,444 dog bites noted in Urban Primary Health Centers (UPHCs) alone. The report showed a drop from 5,702 people receiving the first vaccine dose to only 4,041 completing the fourth dose, indicating poor follow-up and monitoring.
Call for Enhanced Action and Accountability
Residents like P Akilan, from a local apartment complex, shared personal experiences, such as a security guard being bitten, and noted that while action was taken after repeated complaints, some dogs remain in the area. The community urges stricter enforcement of the Supreme Court order, better isolation of aggressive strays, and improved healthcare follow-up to mitigate risks and ensure public safety.
