In a significant move to address the persistent issue of cattle wandering on city roads, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has announced plans to construct three new cattle sheds in South Chennai. The initiative aims to provide a solution for the growing problem of stray cattle, which poses safety risks to motorists and pedestrians alike. The total cost for these new facilities is estimated at Rs 6 lakh, with the tender process set to commence on September 10.The GCC has earmarked three strategic locations in South Chennai for the construction of these cattle sheds:
Venkateswara Nagar Third Street, Adyar: This shed will be constructed at a cost of Rs 1.91 lakh.
Veerapandiya Kattabomman Cross Street, Perungudi: The estimated cost for this facility is Rs 2.07 lakh.
Adjacent to the Bio-CNG Plant near ISKCON Temple, Sholinganallur: The construction of this shed will cost Rs 2.02 lakh.
These locations have been selected based on the high incidence of stray cattle in the area and the availability of space for the construction of the sheds.
In tandem with the construction of these sheds, the GCC has also implemented stricter penalties for cattle owners who allow their animals to roam freely on public roads. Since July, fines for such offenses have been increased from Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000. Repeat offenders face even stiffer penalties, with fines reaching Rs 15,000. Persistent violators will have their cattle impounded in the newly constructed GCC shelters, providing a strong deterrent against negligence.
To prevent the impoundment of their cattle, owners are advised to provide adequate shelter for their animals. The GCC has stipulated that these shelters must have a minimum space of 36 square feet per animal and must be enclosed with a compound wall. Failure to comply with these guidelines will result in the denial of shelter licenses, effectively barring owners from legally housing their cattle within city limits.
In cases where cattle are impounded and remain unclaimed, the GCC has announced that these animals will be handed over to NGOs. This measure ensures that the welfare of the animals is prioritized while also alleviating the burden on the Corporation’s resources.
The GCC’s initiative to construct new cattle sheds and enforce stricter penalties marks a proactive step towards resolving the issue of stray cattle in Chennai. By providing dedicated spaces for these animals and imposing heavy fines on negligent owners, the Corporation aims to improve road safety and enhance the overall quality of life in the city. As the tender process begins on September 10, residents of South Chennai can look forward to a significant reduction in the number of cattle wandering on their streets.