Bengaluru has reported a worrying increase in dog bite incidents, with over 13,800 cases recorded within the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) limits in the first six months of the year. Data from the BBMP health department shows that the numbers are significantly higher compared to the same period last year.

Health officials say most cases involve stray dogs, though some pet-related incidents have also been reported. The spike has raised concerns about the effectiveness of the city’s stray dog control measures, including sterilisation drives and vaccination programmes.

Doctors from BBMP-run hospitals say anti-rabies vaccines are being administered to all reported victims, but caution that many bite cases still go unreported, especially in low-income areas. They have urged residents to seek immediate medical attention in case of an animal bite to prevent the risk of rabies.

Animal welfare activists have pointed out that improper waste management in several wards continues to attract stray dogs, contributing to the rise in attacks. They stress the need for community awareness programmes and better coordination between civic officials and residents to address the problem.

The BBMP has announced that it will intensify stray dog sterilisation efforts and improve garbage clearance in the coming months to curb the growing menace.