Authorities in Mardan have initiated an operation targeting stray animals after receiving numerous grievances from locals regarding the rising population of dogs in neighborhoods and public spaces, which created dangers for children, students, and worshippers. Dozens of these animals have reportedly been eliminated during the drive.

Representatives from the cantonment board explained that the drive uses poisoned bait, with a specialized removal crew conducting focused sweeps near mosques, educational institutions, medical facilities, and other public zones. This response was triggered by continuous appeals from citizens regarding the disruption and threats caused by the animals.

Dr Raza Shah, the Chief Executive Officer of the Cantonment Board, spoke to reporters about the initiative, stating that a dedicated squad was assigned to clear stray dogs from various neighborhoods inside the cantonment boundary.

He noted that the crew focused first on locations where the animals were interfering with daily activities and raising the threat of bites. Individuals heading to mosques for prayers, students, and patients going to medical centers were among those experiencing trouble and safety risks.

Dr Raza mentioned that continuous local grievances drove the Cantonment Board to act quickly, pointing out that the animals worried individuals of every age, especially kids and older adults.

The issue was particularly severe during morning and evening periods when pupils and worshippers frequently crossed paths with the animals. As a result, the board deployed its removal unit for an ongoing sweep, resulting in the elimination of dozens of stray dogs via poisoned bait.

The CEO stated that the Cantonment Board remains dedicated to delivering a secure and hygienic neighborhood for citizens. He asserted that this effort is not a single occurrence, as the board carries out similar drives regularly based on public grievances and current requirements.

He further mentioned that the sweeps will persist throughout the cantonment zone so locals can travel without anxiety, specifically around religious sites, schools, medical facilities, and housing blocks.

In the meantime, locals praised the decision by the board, asking officials to keep the drive going consistently to safeguard vulnerable groups like children, women, older adults, and worshippers from threats presented by stray dogs.