Maharashtra Reports Rise in Stray Dog Population and Dog-Bite Cases, Details Government Measures

Maharashtra's stray dog population has increased notably over the past six years, particularly in districts like Ahilyanagar, Sangli, Raigad, Jalna, and cities including Vasai-Virar, Bhiwandi, and Mumbai. Between 2021 and 2023, 30 lakh dog-bite cases and 30 rabies deaths were reported. The government has issued directives following the Supreme Court's August 2025 orders to local bodies for feeding restrictions, sterilisation, vaccination, and implementation of the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023. However, no specific funds have been allocated to local bodies for stray dog control.