Stray cattle run riot in Hyd

Civic apathy under fire as rising animal menace fuels crashes, safety fears

HYDERABAD:

The increasing presence of stray and diseased animals, particularly cattle, on roads across Hyderabad has led to a surge in traffic accidents, with citizens blaming the alleged negligence of municipal authorities.

Following a rise in stray dog populations, residents are now facing an additional threat as stray and sick cows roam freely on major roads and intersections, creating hazardous conditions for commuters.

Officials of the Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (HMC) and its Town Municipal Corporations (TMCs) have come under criticism for failing to take effective action despite repeated incidents.

Citizens say that over the past few months, several people have been injured in accidents caused by sudden encounters with stray cattle on busy roads.

The situation has worsened in areas including Latifabad and Sachal Sarmast Town, where stray cattle frequently wander on key arteries. In the past, similar incidents, especially during nighttime power outages when visibility was low, had resulted in multiple accidents. Previously, under directives of the district administration, municipal authorities had launched operations to capture such animals and dispose of them in a regulated manner, leading to a visible decline in their presence, particularly in Latifabad. However, residents claim that the crackdown has since been halted, allowing the problem to resurface.

Stray cattle have now reappeared on several major roads, including Autobhan Road from the former Chungi Naka Chowk to Khuda Hafiz Board, Airport Road up to Unit No. 12, Central Fire Brigade roundabout, Saddiq Plaza Chowk, Hali Road, and other busy routes. In some locations, these animals can also be seen resting on green belts and medians. Garbage dumps across the city have further aggravated the issue, as residents dispose of spoiled vegetables and organic waste, attracting stray animals that gather in large numbers in search of food.

Citizens report that these animals often move in groups, sometimes consisting of more than half a dozen cattle, increasing the risk of accidents. Vehicles attempting to avoid sudden obstacles frequently skid or collide with other vehicles, resulting in injuries.

Despite being aware of the situation, elected representatives and officials of the municipal bodies have yet to initiate any meaningful action, residents allege. Interestingly, locals claim that while the cattle appear ownerless, their owners surface when authorities begin operations against them. There are also allegations that some officials release the animals back to their owners after informal arrangements.