Royal garden turns into cattle shelter as authorities look away

The historic Ram Bagh, once a proud symbol of Amritsar’s royal heritage, has now turned into a safe haven for stray cows and bulls. More than a dozen animals can be seen freely roaming the lawns and pathways of the centuries-old garden, leaving visitors concerned and highlighting the growing neglect of this iconic monument.

Declared a protected heritage site by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Ram Bagh was once a beautifully landscaped garden that reflected the grandeur of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s reign. Today, however, it appears to have become a grazing ground for stray cattle.

“It is sad to see the condition of such a historic place. The authorities should act immediately to remove these animals. It is not only unhygienic but also unsafe for children and elderly visitors,” said Rupinder Kaur, a regular morning walker.

Residents allege that despite the government collecting cow cess through vehicle registration, liquor sales and electricity bills, little effort has been made to create proper shelter homes for stray cattle. “The money collected should be used for the purpose it is meant for. Allowing cows to roam freely inside a heritage park is unacceptable,” said Harjot Singh, a local resident.

The garden’s lush grass and open spaces attract animals searching for food and shade, worsening the problem over time as more cattle find their way in.

Environmentalists warn that apart from damaging the fragile landscape, the increasing number of stray animals poses serious health and safety risks. They have urged the ASI and the Municipal Corporation to coordinate efforts and take immediate steps to protect both the monument and its visitors.