Pune Panic: Suspected Rabid Dog Attacks 33 Residents in Chakan, Raises Public Health Concerns

Suspected rabid dog attacks 33 in Chakan, Pune. Residents panic as authorities step up vaccination and stray dog control measures.

Pune | 07 February 2026 – Panic gripped Chakan, Pune, on February 6, 2026, after a suspected rabid stray dog attacked at least 33 residents across several busy public areas. The incident occurred between 9 am and 11 am, affecting high-footfall locations such as Ambedkar Chowk, Mahatma Phule Chowk, and Market Yard. Eyewitnesses reported that the dog displayed aggressive, unprovoked behavior, biting pedestrians and causing chaos, with shopkeepers closing their establishments as residents fled to safety. Among the injured were four children, seven women, 22 men, and several senior citizens. All victims were immediately taken to Chakan Rural Hospital, where they received anti-rabies vaccinations and preventive treatment. Patients with deeper wounds were referred to hospitals in Pimpri-Chinchwad for advanced care. Dr. Sachin Kambale, a medical officer at Chakan Rural Hospital, confirmed that all victims are currently in stable condition.

The dog reportedly died a few hours after the attacks, and veterinary authorities have collected samples for laboratory testing to determine if it was infected with rabies. Residents described the animal as “ferocious and uncontrollable,” noting that it bit multiple people in rapid succession. The incident has reignited debates over stray dog management in Chakan. The Chakan Municipal Council has launched a drive to monitor stray dogs and urged citizens to report any animals exhibiting aggressive behavior. Animal welfare advocates highlighted the gaps in rabies prevention and population control. Activist Mayur Mungse emphasized that the growing stray dog population poses a serious threat to vulnerable populations, particularly children and the elderly, and called for urgent preventive measures.

Chakan, a fast-growing industrial hub, attracts large daily footfall from workers and residents, making public safety a critical concern. Experts suggest that a combination of vaccination campaigns, sterilization programs, and community awareness initiatives is essential to mitigate rabies risks. Dr. Kambale warned that rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, making timely vaccination and preventive care crucial. The local civic body is also considering installing emergency response teams in high-traffic areas to manage similar animal attack situations in the future. For many residents, today’s attack serves as a stark reminder of the importance of proactive public health measures and effective animal control to prevent mass-attack scenarios.

The Chakan rabid dog attack underscores the urgent need for coordinated public health and animal welfare strategies in urban India. As authorities ramp up vaccination drives, monitoring efforts, and public awareness campaigns, community vigilance remains an essential tool in preventing future tragedies.

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