The issue of stray cattle in Gujarat has become a serious problem. In Siddhpur, a cow was spotted wandering in the Mandir Bazaar Chowk area, causing panic among residents. The cow injured an elderly passerby, leading to small injuries. Other people rushed to escape as the cow charged at them. Concerned citizens reported the incident to the Siddhpur Municipality. In response, the municipal stray cattle team quickly took action to rescue the cow. They successfully captured the distressed animal near the old Dharmachakra area.
This incident highlighted the ongoing issues caused by stray cattle in the region. Siddhpur is set to host many Rath Yatra (chariot processions) in the coming days. Therefore, local residents are urging the municipality to take stronger measures to deal with stray animals. They want the authority to improve the situation before the events take place.
The problem of stray cattle is not new. Across Gujarat, the number of stray cattle has increased significantly. Currently, there are over 343,000 stray cattle in the state, making it the fourth highest in India after Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh. The situation has worsened despite promises from authorities to resolve it.
In 2018, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation assured the High Court that they would manage the stray cattle issue within a year. However, little progress has been made. Stray cows often block roads, causing traffic jams and accidents. Drivers panic when they encounter cows on the road, and sometimes these animals injure people.
The government has been criticized for its inability to manage the situation effectively. Many cattle owners remain indifferent to the fate of their stray animals. This year, 2,441 stray cattle were captured, but only a few owners came forward to reclaim their animals. The authorities impose fines on owners whose cattle are found roaming the streets.
Under current regulations, owners are fined ₹3,000 for each stray animal. If the animal is released on the same day it is captured, the owner must pay an additional daily charge of ₹500 for feed. The total fines collected this year reached ₹1.31 million, and police action has been taken against 138 individuals.
As the problem continues, the government considers implementing new laws to address the crisis. Discussions with various cattle owner organisations are underway to seek their input. The aim is to find a solution that ensures public safety and animal welfare.
The situation in cities like Ahmedabad is particularly concerning. Stray cattle have become a common sight, and many accidents are reported daily. The municipal corporation has plans to create shelters outside the city for stray animals, but these plans have yet to materialise.
Residents in areas like Siddhpur and Rajkot are demanding urgent action. In Rajkot, a five-year-old child was injured by stray cattle just recently. This incident has raised alarms about the dangers posed by these animals.
Municipal teams often fail to respond promptly to complaints about stray cattle. Residents feel neglected and unsafe. A recent attack by stray dogs, which injured a four-year-old girl, adds to the growing concern about animal control in urban areas.
The municipality’s inability to tackle this issue has led to increased calls for action from the public. Citizens are worried about their safety and the potential for further accidents as the festival season approaches.
As the situation unfolds, the local government is under pressure to find effective solutions. Stray cattle pose a growing threat, and residents are hopeful for swift action to ensure their community’s safety.
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