Stray Dogs Create Fear in Sonipat; Girl Seriously Injured, Residents Demand Action
Media Report, Sonipat:
Stray dogs have increasingly become a threat in Sonipat, especially during the evening hours, making children and elderly people afraid to step outside. In Model Town, a 14-year-old girl, Rashi, was attacked by a ferocious dog while she was playing outside. She suffered a deep injury on her leg and has been admitted to a private hospital in critical condition. Her family has urged the Municipal Corporation to take strong steps to control stray dogs, but no action has been taken so far.

Sanjay Kumar, a resident of Model Town, said he returned home around 8 pm with vegetables when the dog suddenly attacked the girl as soon as she stepped out. Hearing her screams, neighbors rushed to help and managed to chase the dog away. The girl was immediately taken to the hospital, where she is undergoing treatment. The family claims their street has a gate that remains closed at night, yet the dog still managed to enter.

Residents including Praveen Chawla, Pankaj, Nitin, and Rajveer shared that as evening falls, the number of stray dogs increases in many areas. People fear stepping out at night, and several cases of attacks have been reported. Three days ago, an elderly woman was bitten on Old DC Road, and in Ganaur, three people were injured in a single day.

Municipal officials say over 7,500 dogs have been sterilized, but the process remains slow. Locals complain that negligence by the authorities is leading to growing danger. No awareness drives have been run and sterilization efforts have not been intensified. Every day, 20–25 dog-bite patients reach the Civil Hospital.

Health experts emphasize that after a dog bite, the first anti-rabies injection must be taken within 24 hours. A complete course of 4–5 injections on specific days is necessary. Doctors also advise washing the wound with soap and water for 10–15 minutes and seeking immediate treatment.

In February 2023, Amit from Uttam Nagar in Gohana died after a stray dog bite. Amit worked as an Internet/Wi-Fi provider and was attacked while going to address a complaint. He was taken to the medical college in Khanpur Kalan, where he died during treatment.

The area continues to face constant terror from stray dogs and monkeys, with about 10 patients arriving daily for treatment. Residents have repeatedly demanded firm action.

Mayor Rajiv Jain stated that a shelter home will be built near Jagdishpur village for aggressive dogs, and sterilization work is ongoing. He assured that the campaign will soon be intensified for public relief.