The growing menace of stray cattle on roads, particularly on national highways, is a serious concern that requires firm government intervention. Besides obstructing traffic and acting as natural speed breakers, these animals have caused numerous accidents resulting in loss of life and property damage. Panchayats are tasked with maintaining cattle pounds, but the system is ineffective. Regulations prohibiting unattended grazing are openly flouted. The menace now extends beyond roads to agricultural fields and even beaches, affecting livelihoods and safety. The government must utilize available resources to impound stray cattle and auction them within ten days if unclaimed, imposing heavy fines on negligent owners. This will serve as a deterrent. The priority should be public safety”ensuring the protection of drivers, passengers, and vehicles”without allowing misplaced animal welfare concerns to override human security. The state Govt is better equipped to impound cattle, maintain centralised cattle pounds and auctions within 10 days including heavy fines on owners who care to reclaim.
