If the numerous sharp curves on the narrow and circuitous road on NH- 17 from Polem to Karmal ghat in Canacona taluka and interior roads are not bad enough, motorists are now confronted with yet another obstacle – herds of stray cattle, monkeys and packs of dogs on the road. According to Dilip Kenkre, former Chairperson of Canacona Municipal Council, the scores of cattle have been seen sitting on the road from Paddi to Loliem- Polem. The bovines take over the roads throughout the day and night and this has made driving a hazardous task as motorists ind it very dificult to spot stray cattle at night. “As per police records, more than ten fatal accidents were recorded due to the cattle menace and hundreds have sustained major injuries,” added Kenkre. Noted environmentalist of Canacona, RF John stated that dogs are known to be the best friends of man but at Canacona municipality, people are crying for action from concerned authorities to avoid the menace of ‘stray dogs’ as they not only create problems to morning walkers by running and barking but also some times attack them from behind. According to local businessman Ajit Pai, foreigners in enthusiasm show love for dogs, adopt them, feed them, move with them to places but in the end before their departure desert them and leave them orphaned. ”While people claim that some tourists with plans of visiting the following season hand over such dogs with cash to local households, these locals don’t take proper care of them and leave them to wander on roads, causing a lot of problems to morning walkers,” added Pai. According to the residents of the taluka, if the authorities were to clamp down on the stray cattle menace, not less than 1000 cattle would be seized in just one night. He further said that though motorists and residents have been complaining about the increasing number of stray cattle, authorities have failed to act on the matter. The stray cattle stubbornly stay rooted to the road, forcing vehicle drivers to get out of their vehicles and drive them away. One can see these cattle regularly near the Cuncolim petrol pumps and the market area. Places where large number of stray cattle are seen are at Bhatpal in Shristall Village Panchayat Gulem, Chaudi Bazzar, Poinguinim and at Loliem Village Panchayat. It is the opinion of some of the prominent residents that the concerned Panchayat/ Municipalities should take immediate steps to impound cattle. According to farmer Dharmu Gaonkar, the cattle destroy the paddy ield and seasonal vegetation plantations and the owners do not look after their animals. Social worker Succour Fernandes pointed out that the Canacona municipality some years ago had constructed a cattle pound by spending a huge amount of money. However, allegedly not a single cow has been impounded during the last two years. The same pound has been allegedly utilized for storage purposes because cattle owners have refused to pay ines. Hence, municipal authorities secure their release.
