Bengaluru
In the bustling city of Bengaluru, the intersection of human activities and the well-being of stray cattle has become a growing concern. The Bangalore Bruhat Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) Commissioner is urged to consider launching a comprehensive awareness campaign to address this pressing issue. Within the BBMP limits, the obstruction of vehicular movement by stray cattle has become a common sight. The BBMP Animal Husbandry Department helplines, designed to handle complaints related to stray cattle, are crucial in responding to roadblocks caused by these animals. Stray cattle not only disrupt traffic flow but also pose a risk of accidents. To tackle this issue, the BBMP has implemented a system where they pick up stray cattle and transport them to the BBMP cowshed or shelter near Town Hall. However, a significant challenge arises when cattle owners fail to arrange transportation for their animals back home after paying fines of ₹600 per cattle and ₹300 per calf. This leads to the unfortunate scenario where these innocent creatures are forced to walk long distances, enduring unnecessary suffering. While rules and penalties are in place to manage stray cattle, there is a growing consensus that the punishment imposed on these animals is harsh. Many cattle owners neglect their responsibility of keeping their livestock confined, allowing them to roam freely on city roads after milking them. It is crucial to initiate an awareness campaign shedding light on the cruelty faced by stray cattle due to the negligence of their owners. This campaign should aim to educate the public on responsible animal care, emphasizing the importance of keeping livestock confined to prevent harm to both the animals and the public. By raising awareness about the plight of stray cattle and encouraging responsible ownership, Bengaluru can work towards creating a more compassionate and harmonious environment for both humans and animals within the city limits. The BBMP Commissioner’s consideration of such an awareness initiative is pivotal in addressing this ongoing issue and fostering positive change.
