-- Samir Umarye
BICHOLIM: It is not just wild animals that have been threatening life and property in Bicholim taluka, now stray dogs and cows are also attacking people in various villages. Fingers are being pointed in all directions as efforts to curb the menace are yet to be taken seriously. Concern over attacks by strays turned to panic last week when a 45- yr- old man from Shirgao died of rabies. “ The man was bitten by a stray dog at Narve in Bicholim, but he ignored the bite and opted for some local medicine given in villages,” said a resident from Shirgao. “ By the time the family members realised the threat, it was too late. The man started attacking family members and was immediately shifted to GMC Bambolim, but he died a few days later,” the resident added. While people in and around Shirgao were still shaken by this death, locals at Vathadev- Bicholim found themselves with a similar problem. “ A cow was reportedly bitten by a rabid dog at Vathadev and started displaying symptoms of rabies. It attacked and injured many pedestrians and motorists. In one incident, a two- wheeler rider narrowly avoided the rampaging cow when he climbed up an electricity pole. Traumatised for about two days, the villagers fi- nally retaliated and killed the cow,” said a resident, Aashish Vaze. Speaking to Herald, Keri Range Forest Officer Paresh Porob, stressed that rabies is a dreaded disease and urged people to take necessary precautions. “ The virus is very dangerous and can survive for a very long time, before spreading in a favourable environment,” Porob said. Following the attacks by stray animals, locals have accused the panchayats of doing little to tackle the problem. “ The panchayats are not bothered about these issues that haunt the villages. In Mayem and others villages, it has become difficult for twowheeler riders to travel at night as dogs chase them without any reason,” said Kashinath Mayekar from Mayem. A veterinary doctor, Dr Gawthankar, also blamed the NGOs for failing to address the problem. “ In Goa, NGOs who work for the cause of animals do not function properly. In some other states, there are special veterinary doctors in every municipality. If this happens in Goa, it would not only help reduce the stray dog population, it will also curb unemployment,” said Dr Gawthankar. “ People should not neglect dog and cat bites and they should immediately take antirabies vaccinations,” he added. Narve Deputy Sarpanch Prathishtha Mishal initially feigned ignorance, when asked for comments on ways to deal with the situation. “ We know that the stray dog population has risen in the village and we need to do something about it. The government should come up with some measures to control stray dogs. I will inquire about it and get back to you,” said Mishal.
