Despite sustained efforts by the Tiruchi Corporation, the stray dog menace continues to alarm residents across the city, with recent bite incidents highlighting the growing threat to public safety.
In the past two weeks alone, cases of dog attacks were reported near the District Court complex and along Vayalur Road. Officials believe that food scarcity and intense heat are driving dogs to migrate in search of sustenance, resulting in increased aggression — especially in areas with food carts and street vendors.
Residents from several localities — including K.K. Nagar, Khajamalai, Woraiyur, Srirangam, Karumandapam, Thennur, Kattur, Crawford, and Bheema Nagar — complain that packs of dogs roam the streets, particularly at night, creating fear among pedestrians and children.
“Unvaccinated stray dogs increase the risk of rabies. Our children can’t even play outside safely,” said Felix, a resident of Pari Nagar. Others report that even sterilised dogs have become aggressive after being released back into their original areas.
T. Vigneshwar from K.K. Nagar said, “People coming home late are often chased by dogs. Authorities must consider relocating them to proper shelters.”
According to civic officials, over 26,770 stray dogs have been sterilised between April 2023 and July 2025 under the Corporation’s Animal Birth Control programme. These dogs have also been vaccinated and given antiparasitic treatment. A notch on their ear marks the procedure.
Still, with a recent survey estimating 43,767 stray dogs in Tiruchi, residents fear the issue could escalate further without stronger intervention.