Nagpur: To curb the growing menace of cattle on roads, the Besa-Pipla Nagar Panchayat (NP) has issued a stern public notice warning livestock owners that allowing their animals to roam freely on public roads could invite legal action, including imprisonment of up to one month, a fine of 3,000, or both under the Mumbai Police Act, 1951.The civic body stated that unattended cattle frequently obstruct traffic, increase the risk of accidents, and pose a serious threat to the lives and property of commuters. The notification further warns if a stray animal causes an accident, injury, or death, the owner will be held personally responsible. Owners who tether animals on roadsides, other public places may also face action under Maharashtra Municipal Councils, Nagar Panchayats and Industrial Townships Act, 1965.The nagar panchayat has announced a series of strict enforcement measures. Any stray cattle found on roads will be impounded, cases will be registered against the owners, and fines will be imposed as per the law. Officials said repeat offenders would face even stricter action.Health and sanitation committee chairman Jitendra Chandurkar said the issue has become a major concern in the rapidly developing Besa-Pipla area. “Stray animals are causing road accidents, traffic congestion, and endangering the lives of citizens. No further violations of the rules will be tolerated. Livestock owners must keep their animals in a safe place and not allow them to roam on public roads,” he said.Chief officer Bharat Nandanwar told TOI the legal provisions already existed but required stricter implementation, especially during monsoon. “Rule has always been there, but there was a need for stronger enforcement. During monsoon, many owners let their cattle out to graze, and I have personally witnessed instances where cattle disrupted traffic. This notice is intended to prevent such situations before they lead to serious accidents,” he said.
