According to a recent data revealed by the Vasai Virar City Municipal Corporation (VVCMC), an average of 166 cases were reported daily in the first two months of 2026.
Amid a surge in dog bite cases in the Vasai-Virar region, officials have decided to step up preventive measures.
The issue has gained urgency following the death of nine-year-old Kashish Sahani in Nalasopara on Sunday, March 22, who contracted rabies from a dog bite.
In January and February this year, 10,120 dog bite cases were recorded. Meanwhile, the total number of cases stood at 46,000 in 2025, up from 36,000 in 2024.
Residents have also reported an increase in aggressive stray dog behaviour across several areas, including attacks on children, pedestrians and two-wheeler riders, often in packs.
In response, the civic body has intensified its rabies vaccination and sterilisation drive starting Monday, March 23. While officials have not declared a specific target for this year, they aim to surpass the 15,741 dogs covered last year.
For the unversed, Kashish sustained a scratch from a dog's claw while walking with her grandfather six months ago and was taken to a clinic the very next day.
She was brought back home as she started crying profusely out of fear of the injection. As the wound appeared to have healed the following day, the matter was subsequently overlooked.
Few days ago, her health suddenly started deteriorating, as she stopped consuming food and water, with bloodshots in her eyes. When she was rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment, doctors advised a comprehensive series of diagnostic tests.
Subsequently, she was transferred to Mumbai's Kasturba Hospital for advanced care. However, she passed away while undergoing treatment on Monday.