Stray dogs terrorise villagers

Nearly 90 bite cases reported at rural health centre

SARAI MUGHAL:

A rising threat from stray dogs has created panic among residents in Sarai Mughal and surrounding areas, where daily reports of dog bite injuries continue to surge amid an apparent lack of official response.

According to Dr. Muhammad Aamir Niaz, Medical Superintendent (MS) of the Rural Health Centre (RHC) Hallah, at least 88 dog bite cases have been reported at the facility as of May 28. The victims include children, women, the elderly, and young people, many of whom require urgent medical aid and vaccinations.

The areas most affected include Hanjra Kalan, Sheikhum, and Baharool Kalan, where stray dogs are said to roam the streets and neighborhoods in aggressive packs.

Frightened residents say it has become nearly impossible to safely walk through local streets without fear of being attacked.

Despite the severity of the situation, residents claim that the Tehsil administration of Pattoki remains inactive, failing to control the growing population of stray dogs or provide adequate support to bite victims.

"The stray dogs are everywhere. Our children can't even go to school safely," said a local resident from Hanjra Kalan.

"Every day we hear about new attacks, but the administration is doing nothing."

A major concern raised by citizens is the limited availability of rabies vaccines. Currently, vaccines are only available at RHC Hallah and THQ Hospital Pattoki, both located far from many rural settlements. Nearby Basic Health Units (BHUs) in Sarai Mughal, Hanjra Kalan, and Sheikhum reportedly have no vaccine supplies, putting patients at risk of delayed treatment.

Locals have appealed to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif to take immediate notice of the situation. They demand urgent action to control the stray dog population and ensure vaccine availability at all BHUs to prevent further injuries and suffering.