Karwar: In the last 70 hours, over 15 individuals have sustained injuries due to stray dog attacks in Bhatkal town, located in the Uttara Kannada district, according to health officials on Tuesday. Fortunately, no deaths have been reported.

The majority of those affected were children and elderly people who were bitten while traversing residential neighborhoods or markets, officials noted.

The incidents commenced on July 6 and have been on the rise since then. The injured parties have received treatment at local hospitals, with many undergoing anti-rabies vaccinations.

The increasing frequency of these attacks has raised alarm among local residents, who are calling for prompt action from municipal authorities.

Many residents claim that previous complaints regarding the escalating stray dog population were disregarded by civic organizations.

Officials from the Bhatkal Municipality have stated that they are keeping a close watch on the situation and intend to initiate a sterilization and rescue operation shortly.

The Animal Husbandry Department is anticipated to help in identifying and removing aggressive dogs from the area.

Public health officials have been directed to remain alert due to concerns about potential rabies transmission.

An official announcement from the Bhatkal municipal administration indicated that a review meeting is expected to take place early next week to discuss public concerns and formulate corrective actions.