KCC conducted an awareness campaign at the city’s Model School and College to educate students about responsible pet ownership and the dangers posed by stray animals. Photo: Collected

KHULNA, Sept 24, 2025 (BSS) - The Khulna City Corporation (KCC) is set to begin a vaccination program targeting over 7,000 stray dogs across the city's 31 wards by January 2026. This initiative follows increasing public concerns about dog bites and the risk of rabies transmission.

The KCC had previously conducted a similar campaign in 2023, vaccinating 6,000 stray dogs. However, complaints from residents have continued to grow, with many citing dangerous interactions between stray dogs and pedestrians, as well as accidents caused by dogs chasing vehicles. These issues have created widespread fear, especially among students and parents.

Locals have raised concerns with KCC authorities, with numerous complaints filed by victims, social activists, teachers, citizen groups, and former councilors. 

According to KCC officials, stray dogs are particularly attracted to garbage dumps, where they tear open polythene bags in search of food and frequently establish nearby shelters. The indiscriminate dumping of waste is considered a major factor exacerbating the problem.

Reports of dog-related disturbances are common across several areas in the city, including Labanchara, Mollapara, Jinnapara, Mastarpada, Mohirbari Khalpar, Maularbari Khalpar, Korar Bazar, Miyapara, Purbo Baniakhama, and many others. 

A preliminary survey by KCC recorded significant numbers of stray dogs in various locations, such as 41 dogs at Nirala, 36 at PTI Mor, 28 at Gallamari, and 30 at New Market.

Several concerned groups, including the Greater Khulna Development Action Coordination Committee (GKDACC), Khulna Nagorik Samaj, Ganatantrik Adhikar Surakkha Moncho, and local school authorities, have consistently urged KCC to address the issue. 

At a recent public meeting, animal rights activist S.M. Shohrab Hossain called for immediate action, while GKDACC President Sheikh Ashrafuzzaman emphasized the need for effective control measures.

A KCC official confirmed that key issues, including the stray dog population and proposed solutions, are set to be presented at the upcoming Deputy Commissioner's Conference scheduled for 2026. The proposal has already been submitted to the Khulna Deputy Commissioner's office.

In the meantime, KCC has launched public awareness campaigns in educational institutions across the city. As part of these efforts, a program was organized today at Boyra Model School and College to educate students about responsible pet ownership and the dangers posed by stray animals.

KCC officials estimate that Khulna City currently has around 6,000 to 7,000 stray dogs, contributing to growing concerns about public safety and urban health. A research-based study conducted by KCC has identified several factors behind the rapid increase in the dog population.

Dr. Peru Gopal Biswas, Veterinary Officer for Food Safety and Zoonotic Disease Control at KCC, explained that the vaccination program is scheduled to begin in the first week of January 2026. "We will need additional manpower from the Department of Livestock, especially experts with experience in handling stray dogs for vaccination," he said.

Experts point to inadequate waste management as a key factor in the rise of stray dogs. Many city dustbins are left uncovered, and waste is often dumped directly onto the streets, providing a constant food supply for the animals. In contrast, countries like Japan have stricter waste management systems, which prevent the survival of stray dogs.

While some residents feed stray dogs, they often fail to take responsibility for sterilization, vaccination, or providing shelter, which further contributes to the unchecked population growth. 

Under the Animal Welfare Act of 2019, KCC is prohibited from arbitrarily removing or culling stray dogs. The lack of sufficient manpower, funds, and a comprehensive long-term plan has hindered effective control measures.

KCC officials noted that the problem tends to worsen during the breeding season, which spans from August to November, though reproduction occurs year-round. The issue was previously addressed under the USAID-supported ARC Project, but the program was discontinued after changes in U.S. policy.

Nevertheless, KCC is now working on its own action plan based on research findings. The goal is to find a balance between urban environmental safety and animal welfare. 

KCC's Chief Executive Officer, Sharif Asif Rahman, has instructed the concerned department to present a detailed proposal on dog welfare and rabies prevention at the next general meeting of the city corporation.

KCC Administrator Md. Firoz Sarkar said officials have been instructed to begin implementing the vaccination program as soon as possible. With support from the Department of Livestock Services, the drive will involve over 180 staff members and is expected to last for a week or more. The primary objective is to control the spread of rabies and improve public safety.