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Key Points

Shimla residents are fed up with the growing threat from stray dogs and monkeys in their city. The Citizens' Forum organized another protest to pressure local authorities into taking immediate action. They've gathered alarming hospital data showing dozens of bite cases each month, with children being particularly vulnerable. Even the Mayor admits the problem is serious despite ongoing sterilization efforts, promising to address it in the current council session.

Key Points: Shimla Citizens Protest Stray Dog Monkey Menace Threatening Children

  • Citizens protest outside Deputy Commissioner office demanding urgent municipal action
  • Data shows 50+ animal bite cases monthly from Deen Dayal Hospital
  • Mayor acknowledges rising menace despite vaccination and sterilization drives
  • Protesters threaten public involvement if corporation fails to take concrete measures
2 min read

Citizens protest in Shimla demanding action on growing stray dog and monkey menace

Shimla Citizens' Forum demands immediate action as dog and monkey attacks surge, with 50+ bite cases monthly putting children at highest risk in the city.

"Dog and monkey attacks are increasing every month. Children are the most vulnerable. - Jagmohan Thakur, Shimla Citizens' Forum President"

Shimla, September 30

The Shimla Citizens' Forum on Monday staged a protest outside the office of the Shimla Deputy Commisioner, highlighting the increasing threat posed by stray dogs and monkeys in the city, particularly to children.

Addressing the media, Jagmohan Thakur, President of the Shimla Citizens' Forum, said the protest was part of a continuing effort to ensure immediate action from municipal authorities.

"We had protested on September 17, and today we have gathered again. Our primary objective is to urge the Municipal Corporation to take concrete measures. The House session of the Summer Hill ward council is scheduled this afternoon, where Councillor Virendra Thakur will raise this issue under the Point of Order," he said.

Thakur further emphasised that the menace is citywide and not limited to any particular area.

"Dog and monkey attacks are increasing every month. Children are the most vulnerable. We have gathered data from the Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital, including cases of cat bites, which alone numbered 50 in August. Dog and monkey cases are even higher. We want the Municipal Corporation to adopt concrete measures during today's House session. If they fail, we will involve the public and take serious steps. This is not an individual issue but one affecting the entire city," he added.

Mayor of Shimla City, Surendra Chauhan, expressed agreement with the concerns raised.

"We acknowledge that the menace of stray dogs is rising. We have launched extensive vaccination and sterilisation drives, making Himachal Pradesh the first state to run such a campaign at this scale. Yet, despite our efforts, incidents of dog bites continue to rise, particularly among children. We will discuss this issue in the House and aim to find a joint solution," said Chauhan.

The Mayor also stressed the importance of public cooperation. "We have established feeding zones for stray animals. I urge citizens to feed animals only in designated zones. Social organisations also play a key role in controlling the issue. Everyone must work together to ensure the safety of children and tourists," he said.

The citizens' protest comes amid growing concerns from residents and tourists alike about attacks by stray dogs and monkeys in the city, which not only pose health risks but also affect Shimla's reputation as a safe tourist destination.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
As a Shimla resident for 25 years, I've seen this problem grow from minor nuisance to major crisis. The municipal corporation needs to stop making excuses and take concrete steps. Feeding zones are good but not enough - we need proper animal birth control programs.
S
Sarah B
While I understand the concerns, let's not forget these are living creatures too. The solution should be humane - sterilization and vaccination are the right approach. But yes, public safety must come first, especially for children.
A
Arjun K
This is affecting tourism badly! I run a small hotel here and many tourists complain about aggressive monkeys and dogs. Shimla's reputation as a peaceful hill station is at stake. Municipal Corporation should act before it's too late. 🏔️
M
Michael C
The data from DDU Hospital is alarming - 50 cat bites in August alone? That's just one hospital! The authorities need to wake up and implement a comprehensive plan. Public cooperation is important but so is government action.
K
Kavya N
I appreciate that the Mayor acknowledges the problem, but we've been hearing the same promises for years. The sterilization drives clearly aren't working effectively. Maybe we need to explore other solutions like creating proper shelters outside city limits.
V
Vikram M
The problem starts with us

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