Panic in Bahawalnagar as stray dogs go on the prowl

Over 4,400 mauling incidents reported last year

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BAHAWALNAGAR:

The increasing number of stray dog attacks has laid bare the inefficiency of the district administration, despite official claims of a successful culling campaign.

Reports have surfaced about the purchase of an ineffective and overpriced dog-killing powder, raising concerns over financial mismanagement.

According to Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), Bahawalnagar reported zero dog-bite cases. However, contrary to these official figures, 184 cases were recorded in March alone, with over 4,433 cases reported throughout the year at various district hospitals.

Many victims, unaware of official reporting channels, treated their wounds at home, leading to an underreported crisis.

In response to rising dog-bite incidents, the district administration initiated a dog-culling campaign—at least on paper.

Instead of effectively tackling the issue, the campaign allegedly turned into an opportunity for financial gain.

Despite clear directives from the Supreme Court of Pakistan, the administration purchased an expensive and reportedly ineffective Straychnine Powder from Pakistan Insecticide Chemical Company for dog culling.

Bahawalnagar District Council CEO Arshad Tatla told The Express Tribune that the poison used for culling stray dogs was extremely expensive, costing Rs750,000 per kilogramme.

He stated that the local government Secretary has mandated the purchase of this poison exclusively from a specific company, prohibiting procurement from any other source.

Despite the high cost, Tatla confirmed that, on the directives of the deputy commissioner, a regular dog culling campaign was ongoing across the district.