Lucknow Municipal Corporation Uncovers Illegal Dairy Operation with Animals in Residential Bedroom
In a startling discovery during a routine enforcement drive, officials from the Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) Zone-8 team entered a house in the Royal City Colony, Bijnor, on Wednesday and found buffaloes and heifers occupying a bedroom. The raid was conducted in response to persistent complaints from residents about unauthorized dairy operations in residential neighborhoods, highlighting a growing issue of urban sanitation violations.
Residential Space Transformed into Makeshift Cowshed
Upon entering the premises, LMC officials were confronted with a scene where cattle were housed inside rooms, effectively turning a residential space into a makeshift cowshed. This blatant violation of municipal norms not only compromised the living conditions but also raised serious sanitation concerns in the area. Officials emphasized that such practices contribute to environmental degradation and health risks, particularly in densely populated urban settings.
The raid is part of LMC's ongoing and intensified drive against illegal dairies operating within the city limits. As soon as the civic team arrived at the locality, dairy operators attempted to evade action by hastily hiding animals inside their homes. In one particularly egregious instance, buffaloes, cows, and goats were found locked inside the drawing room and bedroom, demonstrating the lengths to which operators go to circumvent regulations.
Operation Faces Resistance but Yields Significant Seizures
Despite facing resistance from dairy operators, the LMC team persevered, continuing the operation for nearly three hours. During this time, municipal vehicles were reportedly gheraoed, yet the officials remained undeterred. Their efforts culminated in the seizure of 11 buffaloes, four heifers, three cows, and one calf, totaling 18 animals. These animals were subsequently shifted to Kanji House in Aishbagh for proper care and handling.
Civic officials explained that the action was prompted by numerous complaints from residents, who reported that illegal dairies were dumping cow dung in open plots and drains. This irresponsible behavior has led to insanitation, waterlogging, and an increased risk of mosquito-borne diseases, posing a direct threat to public health in the community.
Legal Framework and Ongoing Enforcement Efforts
Dr. Abhinav Verma, an officer from the animal welfare department, stated that such actions against illegal dairies will continue across the city. He clarified the legal limits, noting, "Only two cows or one buffalo is allowed to be kept by an owner within city limits." Furthermore, the LMC cited the Municipal Corporation Act, 1959, which prohibits keeping buffaloes as they are classified as polluting animals, underscoring the legal basis for these enforcement measures.
In a related development, LMC also conducted a simultaneous drive against illegal dairies in Thakurganj, where 12 cows were detained. This coordinated effort reflects the corporation's commitment to curbing unauthorized dairy operations and ensuring compliance with urban regulations to safeguard public health and environmental standards.
