PRAYAGRAJ, Nov. 1 -- Residents of Sangam city could soon see a reduction in the stray dog issue, as the Prayagraj municipal corporation (PMC) has proposed the construction of dedicated shelters for dogs removed from public areas like roads and markets. Stray dogs roaming in packs have become a growing concern across several localities, with frequent attacks reported near hospitals, railway stations, bus stands, schools and residential areas. To tackle the problem, the municipal corporation plans to set up shelters in all four city zones, each spread over one to one-and-a-half acres. The PMC has already identified a site in Phaphamau for one of the shelters and sent a funding proposal to the state government. Construction is expected to begin once the budget is approved and released. Prayagraj municipal corporation veterinary and welfare officer Dr Vijay Amritraj said the proposed shelters would primarily house stray dogs found near schools, hospitals and major intersections. He said the funding proposal had been submitted to the state government and construction would begin once funds were sanctioned. He added that, besides setting up shelters, the corporation is also planning to develop two to three designated feeding points in every ward. The initiative aims to ensure food availability for stray dogs and prevent them from congregating around markets and residential areas in search of food. According to PMC estimates, nearly 5,000 stray dogs roam more than 100 public locations across the city. The civic body plans to form special teams to capture them, with each team comprising five members. The problem is particularly acute around cremation grounds and meat and fish markets, where food waste attracts large numbers of stray dogs. Residents have frequently complained about the menace near Rasulabad, Daraganj and Phaphamau cremation grounds. Other localities reporting significant stray dog populations include Katra, Rajapur, Chowk, Johnstonganj, Teliarganj, Kareli, Sulemsarai, Beli, Mehdauri, Chakiya, Kalindipuram, Mundera and Colonelganj....