Punjab Gau Sewa Commission Vice-Chairman Kimti Bhagat said that stray, abandoned and ownerless cattle roaming on roads and public places across the state will soon be shifted to government and private gaushalas. The move aims to improve cattle welfare, reduce road accidents and provide relief to the public.
Addressing a meeting with district officials and representatives of gaushala management committees at the District Administrative Complex, Hoshiarpur, Bhagat said the Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, is taking concrete steps to ensure proper care of stray cattle in the coming months.
He directed Municipal Corporation and Municipal Council officials to conduct regular drives and shift stray cattle to nearby gaushalas and cattle shelters. He also instructed the Animal Husbandry Department to ensure regular vaccination and treatment of injured cattle. Bhagat announced that the Punjab Government has increased financial assistance for cattle maintenance in gaushalas. The daily amount provided for fodder and other expenses has been raised to Rs 61 per cow, offering much-needed relief to gaushala managements. He further directed officials to expedite pending cases related to electricity bill waivers for gaushalas and release cattle cess funds to support their smooth functioning.
Strict action has also been ordered against dairy owners who abandon cattle on roads. Municipal authorities have been asked to impose fines and take legal action under the Municipal Act. Police officials were directed to prevent cattle smuggling and register FIRs in such cases. After the meeting, Kimti Bhagat visited the Falahi cattle shelter and reviewed existing and future arrangements for cattle care. He assured gaushala representatives that their concerns would be addressed on priority. Deputy Commissioner Ashika Jain and other senior district officials were present at the meeting.
