In recent years, cases of stray dogs attacking visitors and tourists along the beach belts have surfaced with several questions being raised on the safety of those frequenting the beaches on one side and ways to address the issue on the other. In the past week alone, three senior citizens, including two foreigners, were attacked along the beaches of South Goa, according to a press release by Drishti Marine. In another case, a Karnataka tourist was attacked by three dogs while he was entering a shack.
The problem of stray dog attacks is not new, having intensified since the pandemic began. The reasons for dog attacks have been long identified. One of the primary reasons cited for dogs turning violent or aggressive is due to lack of food. Very often, stray dogs roam along roads and beach stretches, uninitiated by human presence, in search of food. While much has been spoken of the effect of these attacks on tourism and tourists visiting popular beaches, not much has been done to address the root cause of the issue.
There is no denying that such incidents not only endanger public safety but could have serious implications on the tourism economy and its reputation as a welcoming destination for global travellers. People have witnessed some of the most vicious attacks that have left tourists mauled and bleeding with multiple bites. Interestingly, the issue figured prominently in the Legislative Assembly with local representatives seeking help from the government to remedy the situation. In turn, the government had assured to explore solutions after consultations with stakeholders and local bodies.
While the government has recently initiated a dog census to take stock of the ferocious dogs or foreign breeds in the State against the backdrop of a series of lethal attacks by Rottweilers and Pitbull breeds, very little has been done to address the issue of stray dogs. In fact, a solution to the stray dog issue should have been the priority because it is a more pressing issue. We can understand that the government alone may be unable to address this problem, but then, somewhere it has to be initiated. A concerted effort involving local authorities, animal welfare organisations, and communities is essential. Instead, we often witness sporadic initiatives that lack the necessary resources or follow-through.
We must understand it is not only about stray dogs; it is an intertwined issue involving environmental responsibility and animal welfare. We cannot ignore the well-being of these strays”many of whom are homeless, suffering and have nothing to feed on. Solutions must take a humane approach that benefits both humans and animals. Governments and stakeholders can work collaboratively to create safe environments by implementing proactive animal welfare programmes alongside community safety initiatives.
The recent incidents of stray dog attacks in coastal Goa are a grim reminder that we cannot ignore the issue. The longer we wait to address this issue, the more we will prolong the agony. It is evident that discussions and consultations, while necessary, are insufficient on their own. The local government must prioritize this emerging crisis, develop a comprehensive strategy, and invest in its implementation. Pending any substantial progress, we risk conditioning both residents and tourists to visit our famed beaches through a cloud of fear”a dire outcome for a state renowned for its warmth and hospitality.
