Mumbai Sees 1.54 Lakh Dog-Bite Cases In 2025

Mumbai recorded 1,54,017 dog-bite cases in 2025, according to the BMC. This staggering number has raised concerns among corporators and citizens alike.

Additional Municipal Commissioner Avinash Dhakane informed the BMC General Body meeting that 25,211 stray dogs were sterilised between April 2024 and March 2025. He also announced plans to sterilise 12,000 more stray dogs by 2027 and intensify efforts to control the stray-dog menace by 2030.

During the meeting, corporators raised serious concerns over stray dog attacks on schoolchildren, women, and working professionals. Shiv Sena (UBT) corporator Kailas Pathak alleged that anti-rabies vaccines are not available at civic hospitals and demanded immediate measures to tackle the issue. NCP corporator Saeeda Khan questioned the effectiveness of the sterilisation programme and sought clarity on the establishment of new shelters in Chembur, Malvani, and Mulund.

The non-availability of anti-rabies vaccines at civic hospitals was also raised by Leader of House and BJP corporator Ganesh Khankar, who termed it a matter of shame for the BMC. Other corporators, including Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Kishori Pednekar and Congress corporator Dr Ajanta Yadav, also demanded immediate action to address the stray dog problem.

In response to the concerns, Mayor Ritu Tawde directed the administration to expedite the sterilisation of stray dogs, construct shelters, and ensure the availability of anti-rabies vaccines at civic hospitals. Dhakane announced plans to establish shelters at six locations and assured that anti-rabies vaccines will be available 24/7 at all BMC hospitals for dog-bite victims.

A 2024 survey estimated Mumbai's stray dog population to be around 90,757. The sterilisation programme is being carried out through eight government and semi-government agencies. The BMC currently has a stock of 17,000 anti-rabies vaccine doses for dog-bite victims.

The civic administration aims to make Mumbai rabies-free by 2030, in partnership with Mission Rabies India. The high number of dog-bite cases in 2025 has highlighted the need for urgent action to control the stray-dog population and ensure the safety of citizens.

The BMC's plans to intensify sterilisation efforts, establish new shelters, and ensure the availability of anti-rabies vaccines are crucial steps towards addressing the stray dog problem in Mumbai. As the city strives to become rabies-free by 2030, the success of these initiatives will be closely watched by citizens and corporators alike.

In conclusion, the high number of dog-bite cases in Mumbai in 2025 has raised serious concerns among citizens and corporators. The BMC's plans to address the issue are a step in the right direction, and their successful implementation will be crucial in ensuring the safety of Mumbai's residents.