SURAJ NANDREKAR
Despite several accidents, some fatal, and the media reports highlighting the stray cattle in the state, authorities don’t seem to move an inch on the issue.
And these mobile boulders (because that’s exactly what the cattle squatting on the roads have become) are present even in the heart of Panjim. The Madhuban junction, in St Inez, is one such place where the residents are up in arms over the lackadaisical approach of the authorities.
The residents say they have complained to the Corporation of the City of Panaji many times but to no avail. Several accidents have taken place, especially at night, with two-wheeler riders being unable to spot the animals. The authorities have turned a blind eye to the issue, alleged the locals.
“Most of the cattle are in dark colour (brown or black) and are not visible at night even with street lights and headlights on until you reach very close,” says Milind Netravalkar.
Rashmi Desai, resident of Taleigao, says she travels around 8.00 pm, everyday and it has become very dangerous.
“When it rains it gets worse,” she says.
The Taleigao junction and the Bhatlem-Manshi junction (near four pillars) are the other two cattle menace prone spots.
“The authorities must catch hold of the owners and punish them for this lethargy,” said Ramesh Naik of Mala.
CCP Mayor Surendra Furtado put the blame squarely on the government. “It is a really a very big issue and the government should act before people start dying on the roads,” Furtado told Herald, adding the issue has to be handled by the Directorate of Animal Husbandry.
Furtado said that the menace has to be tackled immediately.
“At night it is very difficult to drive as they are not visible,” he said.
Consistent efforts to contact Animal Husbandry officials for comments proved futile.
