PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
Experts here advised residents to exercise caution when encountering stray cattle, especially during fights or near roads, to avoid accidents. This recommendation comes in the wake of a tragic incident where an 82-year-old woman lost her life recently after being caught in a fight between bulls in the Premnagar area of Dehradun. Concerned about this incident, experts emphasised on the need for public awareness and caution regarding stray cattle.
Senior veterinary officer at the Municipal Corporation of Dehradun (MCD) Dr Varun Aggarwal has also expressed his concerns about the situation. He stated that it is essential for pedestrians and residents to remain vigilant during such incidents. If they find themselves in danger from stray cattle, he advised that they shout for help and instead of running in a straight line, they should move in a zigzag manner, as bulls tend to charge directly forward. He further stated that the MCD is always alert regarding issues related to stray cattle but its responsibilities are limited to specific areas. The cantonment area where the recent incident occurred is outside the MCD’s jurisdiction. He urged residents to report incidents involving stray cattle, particularly if they occur within MCD limits.
To address complaints about stray cattle, the MCD has established guidelines and policies. Residents are encouraged to contact the MCD immediately if they encounter any threatening situations related to stray cattle. The corporation has provided several contact numbers for reporting, including a WhatsApp number and control room numbers. Residents can report issues related to stray cattle on WhatsApp at 7500011027 or 9458979644. Additionally, they can reach the control room at 0135278956, 9286477117 or 9286459167. These numbers are available 24/7. Routine complaints are typically resolved within 24 to 48 hours, while emergencies are prioritised for quick resolution, he said.
In response to complaints, the MCD will dispatch teams to remove stray cattle from the reported location and transport them to a shelter. The MCD operates two shelters for stray cattle in Dehradun- one in Kedarpuram with a capacity of 300 and another in Shankarpur, Selaqui, with a capacity of over 600. Aggarwal emphasised that if a resident encounters stray cattle, they should file a complaint using the provided contact numbers. It is essential for the person reporting to stay at the location until authorities arrive, he said.A representative from the Animal Welfare Board of India, Rubina Nitin Iyer urged residents to remain cautious and keep their distance from stray cattle, reiterating the importance of contacting authorities swiftly in such instances.
