Odisha is facing a growing public health crisis as dog bite incidents have surged across the state. According to the Public Health Director, Dr. Nilakantha Mishra, approximately 1.5 lakh dog bite cases have been reported in the last six months, averaging 20,000 to 30,000 cases per month. This alarming trend has raised concerns among residents and health experts alike.
The 2019 Livestock Census revealed that Odisha has 17.34 lakh stray dogs, the second-highest stray dog population in India. While precise district-wise data is unavailable, dog bite incidents are prevalent across all districts, posing a significant challenge to public safety. The rising number of stray dogs, coupled with increasing rabies cases, has intensified calls for stronger measures to address the issue.
To curb the stray dog population, the state government has implemented the Animal Birth Control (ABC) program. In the 2022-23 financial year, 4,605 stray dogs were sterilised in eight urban areas. The government has also set an ambitious goal of making Odisha rabies-free by 2030. Anti-rabies vaccines (ARV) are adequately stocked in all medical facilities and community health centres (CHCs) across the state. Dr. Mishra emphasised the importance of immediate medical attention for dog bite victims, warning that delays could increase the risk of contracting rabies, a deadly disease.
Stray dogs are a common sight in rural and urban areas, from villages to city streets, schools, and offices, creating widespread concern. Health experts have urged the government to expand sterilisation, vaccination, and awareness programs. On social media platforms like X, opinions are divided—some advocate for removing stray dogs from public spaces, while others call for humane solutions like sterilisation and vaccination.
With 39.7 stray dogs per 1,000 people, Odisha ranks second in India for stray dog density. The rising rabies cases underscore the urgency of addressing this crisis. Experts and residents are pressing for stricter measures, including expanding sterilisation programs in rural areas, improving waste management to reduce stray dog congregations, and establishing shelters for abandoned animals.
As Odisha battles this public health challenge, the state government faces mounting pressure to implement comprehensive and sustainable solutions to ensure the safety of its citizens.
