Dog bite incidents in the state have moved beyond being occasional human-animal conflicts and are now emerging as a serious public safety and health concern. On average, nearly 13,000 people are bitten by dogs every month, which translates to around 425 cases every day. Data from the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) highlights the alarming scale of the problem.
Cases Increase Consistently Over Three Years
The number of reported dog bite cases has shown a steady and worrying rise over the past three years. In 2023, more than 1.14 lakh cases were recorded across the state. This figure increased to 1.35 lakh in 2024 and worsened further in 2025, crossing 1.55 lakh cases.
Compared to 2023, dog bite incidents rose by 35.96 percent in 2025, clearly indicating a rapidly growing threat.
Raipur Tops the List of Affected Districts
Raipur district has reported the highest number of dog bite cases in the state. Despite spending nearly ₹15 lakh annually on sterilisation and vaccination of stray dogs, the expected impact is not visible on the ground.
For children, women, and senior citizens, even walking through neighbourhood streets has become risky.
District-wise Dog Bite Cases (Last Year)
Raipur: 21,176
Bilaspur: 17,749
Durg: 14,021
Korba: 9,290
Jashpur: 9,042
Children Face the Highest Risk
Health experts warn that children aged 5 to 14 years are the most vulnerable group. Dog bites are not limited to physical injuries alone; they also carry the serious risk of rabies, a disease that is almost always fatal once symptoms appear.
The challenge becomes even greater in rural areas and small towns, where timely medical treatment and availability of anti-rabies vaccines remain limited.
Ignoring Minor Bites Can Be Fatal
Doctors caution that many people tend to ignore minor scratches or bites from dogs and cats, assuming them to be harmless. This negligence can be deadly.
Rabies has no cure once symptoms develop, but it is 100 percent preventable if vaccination is taken on time.
Even today, some people rely on unsafe practices like applying chilli powder, turmeric, oil, or seeking faith healing instead of visiting a hospital—actions that can prove life-threatening.
Reasons Behind the Rising Incidents
Experts point to several factors contributing to the growing number of cases:
Poor implementation of sterilisation programs and administrative negligence leading to an increase in stray dog populations
Scarcity of food during winters making dogs aggressive, while higher outdoor activity in summers increases human-dog encounters
Sudden movements, shouting, or running by children often trigger dogs
Feeding dogs on roadsides causes them to gather in large numbers, creating risk for residents
Sick or injured dogs become irritable and may bite when touched
