Despite the government’s recent announcement of a proposed legislation to impound stray cattle and hold owners accountable for accidents caused by them, the situation on the ground suggests it's more lip service than action.
In Mapusa, the growing population of stray dogs and cattle remains neglected, with civic authorities apparently doing little to address the issue. Most bovines and canines take over the streets at night, and the municipality has failed to effectively manage their numbers or behaviour.
Cattle, often aggressive and roaming freely, charge at motorists and pedestrians, squatting in the middle of roads and increasing the likelihood of accidents. The stray dogs create further chaos, particularly at night, by chasing bike riders, often leading to serious crashes.
The situation is worsened by the fact that most of the cattle are neither properly looked after nor provided food by their owners. They can often be seen foraging through waste and garbage on the streets, adding to the mess and health hazards. While the government funds gaushalas to care for cattle, the ever-increasing numbers are overwhelming these shelters, leaving them struggling to provide adequate care.
The Mapusa Municipality must act now. It's high time they take responsibility and start impounding all stray animals, sending them to the animal shelters to alleviate this nuisance. It's no longer just an inconvenience—it's a serious safety hazard for residents and commuters. The authorities must take decisive action before more lives are lost or damaged.