Dibrugarh in Assam is facing growing concern over stray dogs after 102 dog-bite cases were reported in the city within a week. The sudden rise in incidents has sparked fears among residents over the risk of rabies and the increasing stray dog population.
Assam Medical College and Hospital (AMCH) Superintendent Dr Dhrubajyoti Bhuyan said on Wednesday that 102 people from different parts of Dibrugarh had visited the hospital for treatment following dog-bite incidents in the past seven days.
The situation was particularly concerning on Tuesday, when AMCH recorded 35 dog-bite cases in a single day. According to Dr Bhuyan, 30 of those cases were reported from Thana Chariali, while the remaining five came from other parts of the city.
Officials believe the actual number of cases could be higher, as several victims may have received treatment at private hospitals or other healthcare centres instead of AMCH.
Following the increase in dog-bite incidents, Dibrugarh Mayor Dr Saikat Patra announced a new anti-rabies vaccination campaign for stray dogs. The drive began at 4 pm on Wednesday and is being carried out across multiple areas of the city.
Patra urged residents to stay alert around stray dogs, particularly children, and stressed that anyone bitten by a dog should seek medical care without delay.
According to officials, more than 300 stray dogs have already been vaccinated in different parts of Dibrugarh since August 14, 2025. The vaccination programme has been carried out by the Dibrugarh Municipal Corporation, the State Veterinary Dispensary and NGO Animal Welfare People.
Authorities said continued vaccination efforts and public awareness are essential to tackle the risk. Rabies is a potentially fatal disease, but timely post-exposure treatment can prevent the disease from developing after exposure.
