City residents report that stray dogs have become a daily hazard across Rawalpindi, making movement on streets, parks and near markets increasingly unsafe. Citizens said children, women and the elderly are especially affected and many now avoid walking or exercising outdoors due to fear of attacks.
Zahir Ahmad Awan, chairman of the Citizen Action Committee, pointed to hot spots including Zafar-ul-Haq Road, Chah Sultan, Dhok Khabbah, Dhok Ilahi Bakhsh, Sadiqabad, Amarpura, Millat Colony, Chaklala Road, Shakrial, Arya Mohalla, Moti Mahal, Raja Bazaar, Faizabad, Peerodahi, Dhok Haso and Asghar Mall where stray dogs are frequently sighted. He warned that no lane, park, graveyard or open plot seems free from packs of roaming animals.
Residents also raised alarms after a video emerged showing a violent fight between stray dogs inside Holy Family Hospital premises, underscoring that even healthcare facilities are not safe from the growing problem. Awan stressed that multiple dog bite incidents have already occurred, heightening concern for students who travel to school and college every day.
Local people urged immediate steps to address the threat, saying kids go to school in fear and daily routines have been disrupted. They asked the Commissioner and the Metropolitan Corporation to take swift measures to control the stray population and secure public spaces.
Citizens called on the Chief Minister of Punjab and the Chief Secretary to prioritize removal and management of stray dogs in order to restore safety and peace of mind for Rawalpindi residents.
