Funds inadequate, bulls deprived of quality fodder at Nalagarh sanctuary
Was inaugurated in Feb
The Handa Kundi-based cow sanctuary in Nalagarh subdivision was inaugurated by the Chief Minister on February 28 and it houses about 500 abandoned animals. A sizeable number comprises massive bulls weighing 450-550 kg.
Ambika Sharma
Tribune News Service
Solan, December 10
The absence of adequate funds to feed animals at the Handa Kundi-based cow sanctuary in Nalagarh subdivision has deprived the bulls of quality fodder.
Expressing concern over the prevailing situation where the absence of quality dry and green feed could cause progressive ketonemia, a senior veterinary officer pointed out that the situation, if left unaddressed, would result in a number of mortalities.
The sanctuary was inaugurated by the Chief Minister on February 28 and it houses about 500 abandoned animals. A sizeable number comprises massive bulls weighing 450-550 kg.
“Since these animals have recently been shifted to this sanctuary, they suffer from internal injuries, aspirational pneumonia and internal crushing injuries,” said a senior veterinary officer at Nalagarh.
Though such sanctuaries were opened with much fanfare to provide refuge to cows and other deserted animals, the lack of adequate funds is acting as a deterrent for their smooth functioning. Its management is being looked after on an ad-hoc basis. A veterinary officer pays a visit twice a week and a pharmacist is deputed for an hour everyday.
Officials point out that this was inadequate, given the high number of animals housed there. Though a provisional society was constituted to look after the sanctuary, it would soon fall short of funds unless some provisions are made at the earliest.
An expenditure of about Rs 8 lakh would be required to deal with the prevailing problems to provide dry and green fodder, concentrate feed and deworming treatment at least once in six months for all animals, according to an estimate sent to senior officials and the local administration by the senior veterinary officer.
Not only is a full-time official or pharmacist required to look after the sanctuary, funds are also required for medicines, deworming and iodised salts to keep the animals in good health.
The Sub Divisional Magistrate at Nalagarh and the chairman of the cattle sanctuary society have also been apprised of the problems at the sanctuary for ensuing speedier solution. Officials were not available for comments.
