Unrestricted Movement of Cattle on Main Roads Leads to Rise in Accidents

Kakatpur | 06/09/2024
Report by: Tushar Dixit

In the Kakatpur and Astarang regions of Puri district, stray cattle are frequently seen roaming for hours on the main roads, causing major disruption to vehicular movement. Cows, bulls, and even stray dogs are often found lying around in places like Kakatpur Block Square, Chandan Bazaar, Ganesh Bazaar, Mangala Road, and Medical Square, turning the busy roads into resting spots.

While vehicles of all sizes try to navigate these roads, incidents of accidents involving cattle are becoming increasingly common. At times, even bullfights on the roads lead to significant financial loss due to property damage. As it is currently the farming season, locals are driving the cattle away from their fields to prevent crop destruction, pushing them toward the roads. As a result, hundreds of cows, bulls, and other animals end up occupying the roads for long durations, making the roads resemble open cowsheds.

Some people, despite having cowsheds, still let their cattle loose on the roads every morning. The panchayat has made no effort to raise awareness or take responsibility for ensuring that people keep their cattle under control. Locals allege that no action has been initiated by the administration or local representatives. Residents of the panchayat are now demanding immediate intervention and effective measures to address this growing concern.