Strays cattle pose threat to Panchkula commuters

Panchkula, September 2

Left to fend for themselves on roads, stray cattle have now become a threat to the life and property of commuters on the Panchkula-Barwala and Panchkula-Kalka highways. At times, herds of animals can be seen going-around in circles on the highways, blocking passage of vehicles, especially at night. After becoming a menace in the city’s residential areas, these stray cattle have become a nuisance on highways, too.

Residents said the roads had become unsafe for commute. Santosh, a resident of Sector 14 said, “Not one or two, but at times, numerous animals can be seen roaming around on city roads and highways at a time. The normal speed of vehicles on the highway is above 60 and 70 km per hour, as such the drivers can lose control over the vehicles in case an animal suddenly comes in the way.”

Residents said the stray animals are left on the highways by people of nearby villages. “They bring their animals in vehicles and drop them off on roadsides. As such, abandoned animals, including cows, dogs and other strays are frequently found wandering on the roads and streets, causing obstacles and hazards to vehicles,” said another resident.

Residents pointed-out that the state government had recently announced a waiver of all property tax on cow shelters and a four-time increase in grant for fodder to Rs 20 per cow. A resident said, “The state recently announced to waive-off stamp duty on purchase of land for cow-shelters as well. The government is also collecting cow-cess on various purchases to arrange funds for care of stray animals, but the animals continue to roam free.”