Margao: Residents of Curchorem-Cacora have expressed growing alarm over a stray buffalo menace that is not only destroying crops and banana plantations but also creating severe road safety hazards.
Nightly Roaming Herds Cause Damage
According to local reports, herds of stray buffaloes have been roaming the town over several nights, moving from Ambedkar Chowk toward Baagwada and Shirfod. These animals have caused significant damage to plantations. Tushar Suresh Kudchadkar, a resident whose plantation in Baag was affected, reportedly suffered substantial losses.
Road Safety Risks at Night
Residents have flagged the danger at Ambedkar Circle, where buffaloes have been spotted wandering onto the road after dark. The presence of cow dung and water on the road further compounds the risk. “Buffaloes suddenly jump onto the road. It is an open invitation for accidental death,” warned a resident, highlighting that many young commuters travel on two-wheelers early in the morning and late at night.
Interim Measures Proposed
To mitigate the immediate threat, residents have suggested installing nets on both sides of the roads leading to Ambedkar Circle. This would serve as an interim measure to prevent the animals from straying onto the road.
Legal Framework and Demand for Action
Under the Goa Municipalities Act, a designated pound keeper is responsible for impounding stray cattle within municipal limits to ensure public safety, smooth traffic flow, and accident prevention. Locals are now demanding that the Curchorem-Cacora Municipal Council urgently address this issue.
