10 schools shut after stray dog attacks in Uttarakhand, online classes ordered

A series of stray dog attacks in Chamoli, Uttarakhand has sparked fear among residents after children, people and animals were reportedly attacked. Authorities have ordered 10 schools to remain closed for two days as teams work to catch the dogs. Students will attend classes online during the closure.A series of stray dog attacks in Chamoli, Uttarakhand has sparked fear among residents after children, people and animals were reportedly attacked. (AI-generated image)A spate of stray dog attacks has triggered panic in Narayanbagar area of Chamoli, Uttarakhand, with children, residents and animals reportedly coming under attack.The situation has now reached schools. Authorities have ordered 10 schools in the area to remain closed for two days as a precautionary measure. Students have been asked to attend classes online so their studies do not suffer.The administration had initially announced a four-day closure, but reduced it to two days after officials said the situation was improving.TEAMS DEPLOYED TO CATCH DOGSChamoli District Magistrate Gourav Kumar said several incidents had been reported over the past two to three days and that officials had received information that one or two dogs could be infected with rabies. "We are taking all the necessary precautions. Teams from the Animal Husbandry Department, Forest Department, Disaster Management and DDMA have been deployed there to catch them," Kumar said.According to the administration, the suspected infected dogs had attacked other dogs, livestock and children, prompting authorities to step up the response.ONLINE CLASSES DURING SCHOOL CLOSURE With children being asked to stay away from school for their safety, officials have directed schools to shift to online teaching for the two-day closure.The unusual move has added urgency to the situation in Narayanbagar, where residents have been demanding action after repeated attacks.Authorities are now focusing on capturing the suspected dogs and preventing further attacks while trying to ensure that students do not lose classroom time.- EndsPublished On: Aug 20, 2026 19:41 IST