Despite SC directive, stray dog abound in Lko areas

Lucknow: Despite a Supreme Court directive mandating the removal and regulated management of stray dogs from public spaces, implementation remains incomplete across several key locations in the city. Concerns of traders and visitors surfaced during a reality check conducted by The Times of India (TOI) recently. Ground visits to markets, institutional zones and transit corridors showed stray dogs continuing to occupy entry lanes, vending stretches and campus roads, raising concerns over public safety and movement. At Phoolbagh market and Udayganj, stray dogs were seen gathered near the narrow entrance. Traders said the presence discouraged visitors. "Customers, especially families, hesitate to enter when dogs sit at the gate. It directly affects business," said shop owner Ramesh Gupta. In Udayganj market, dogs and puppies moved through congested vending lanes. Vendors reported frequent navigation issues. "Bike riders slow down suddenly when dogs run alongside. Removal drives are needed here," said vendor Salim Khan. A local resident added, "Without relocation or designated zones, the problem keeps returning," said Sunita Verma. Near Saharaganj mall road, dogs were found resting around food stalls. Vendors raised sanitation concerns. "People avoid eating here when dogs sit near tables. Authorities should remove them from vending zones," said stall operator Manoj Tiwari. Educational campuses reflected similar conditions. At Lucknow University, students reported fear during evening hours. "Dogs gather near hostel roads at night. It feels unsafe while walking back," said student Aditya Mishra. In the adjoining Daliganj market, traders said dog presence near shop entrances affected footfall. "Morning buyers avoid lanes where dogs are lying," said shopkeeper Shabana Rizvi. Aminabad market continued to face problems due to stray dogs gathered in dense lanes. "Movement becomes difficult in peak hours. Removal action is required," said resident Faizan Ahmed. However, some locations showed visible control. Sachivalaya and Hussainganj Metro stations were found largely free of stray dogs. "Near KD Singh Babu Stadium Metro station, only a few dogs were spotted, indicating partial impact of recent drives. Animal welfare officer Abhinav Verma said, "We are continuously running the drive for vaccination and sterilisation of the stray dogs around the public spaces. However, we are in the process of making a designated dog shelter home in the city. As soon as it gets completed, we will shift dogs to the shelter home." Residents and traders said the apex court directive must be enforced through removal, relocation, sterilisation and marking of feeding zones to balance public safety with humane management.