Chakan, 6th February 2026: Widespread panic swept through Chakan after a suspected rabid stray dog attacked at least 33 people in a rapid series of incidents across crowded public areas, raising serious concerns about public health and stray animal control.
The attacks unfolded within a two-hour window between 9 am and 11 am at key locations, including Ambedkar Chowk, Mahatma Phule Chowk, and the Market Yard. Witnesses said the dog displayed unusually aggressive behaviour, biting pedestrians without provocation and creating chaos in busy commercial zones. Several shopkeepers shut their establishments as residents hurried to safety.
Among the injured were four children, seven women, 22 men, and several senior citizens. All victims were taken to Chakan Rural Hospital, where they received anti-rabies vaccinations and preventive treatment. Medical officer Dr. Sachin Kambale stated that the patients are in stable condition, though some with deep wounds were referred to hospitals in Pimpri-Chinchwad for advanced care.
The dog reportedly died a few hours after the attacks. Veterinary authorities have collected samples for laboratory testing to confirm whether the animal was infected with rabies. Residents described the animal as uncontrollable and ferocious, saying it bit multiple people in quick succession.
The incident has reignited debate over stray dog management in Chakan, a fast-growing industrial town with dense daily footfall. The Chakan Municipal Council has launched a drive to track and monitor stray dogs and appealed to citizens to report animals showing signs of aggression.
Animal welfare advocates and civic activists say the episode exposes gaps in rabies prevention and population control measures. Activist Mayur Mungse warned that the widespread presence of stray dogs poses a threat to vulnerable groups, especially children and the elderly, and called for urgent preventive steps.
Residents also voiced concern about a perceived rise in dog-bite cases across Pune district, urging authorities to implement large-scale vaccination of stray dogs and systematic monitoring to prevent future outbreaks.
For many in Chakan, the incident serves as a stark reminder that sustained public health measures and proactive animal control are essential to prevent similar mass-attack situations in the future.
The post Pune: Panic in Chakan After Suspected Rabid Dog Attacks 33 Residents appeared first on Punekar News.
