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Call for urgent action over stray dog surge

Questions raised over the timing of the new stray dog management contract
 
TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

The Municipal Council member Abdullah Al Qubaisi has called for urgent action by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Agriculture to address the growing and concerning spread of stray dogs in the cemetery area of Hamad City. He stressed the need for immediate intervention in response to repeated complaints from residents and to ensure the safety of both residents and visitors in the area.

Al Qubaisi explained that these concerns are driven by serious reasons that place the situation at the forefront of urgent priorities. He noted that the archaeological cemetery area in Hamad Town, extending between several roundabouts, is witnessing a noticeable increase in stray dogs, especially since the site is located within a densely populated residential zone, which significantly increases daily risks.

He added that complaints from residents have escalated due to the dogs frightening children and causing continuous disturbance, posing a direct threat to public safety and security, particularly during evening and nighttime hours when the dogs are more active.

He also pointed out that this request comes at a time when the ministry has announced a new tender for organizing and managing stray dog populations, following the end of the previous contract and the delay in finalizing the new one. He questioned when the new contract would actually be activated and implemented.

Al Qubaisi further revealed that the hotline designated for reporting stray dogs is currently out of service due to the expiration of the previous contract, leaving residents without an effective channel to report urgent cases.

He stated that the number of stray dogs in the area is continuously increasing, emphasizing that current spaying and neutering efforts have not effectively controlled the rapid population growth. He called for alternative, more innovative, and decisive solutions to end the ongoing issue that continues to disturb residents.