NT Reporter
Panaji
In the past few months, the Goa traffic police have fitted reflective collar belts on more than 1,000 stray cattle across the state, a proactive safety measure aimed at reducing night-time road accidents reportedly caused by cattle on the roads.
The initiative was undertaken by the Traffic Police Headquarters, Panaji, through traffic cells
across Goa.
A police officer said that while the primary responsibility of the traffic police is regulation and enforcement, this measure was taken voluntarily to help motorists spot cattle sitting on roads at night
and avoid accidents.
“More such belts will be given to the traffic cells in the future,” said the officer.
Government data shows that from 2023 to June 2025, 1,302 road accidents occurred due to cattle on the roads, resulting in seven deaths. Three deaths were reported in Bicholim and one each in Calangute, Old Goa, Verna and Curchorem.
In 2023, there were 524 cattle-related accidents with two fatalities. In 2024, there were 507 such accidents with four fatalities. Between January and June 2025, 271 accidents were recorded, resulting
in one death.
Police officials said cattle have also died in road accidents. They added that stray cattle on roads and highways continue to pose a major threat
to commuters.
Letters have been sent to various authorities requesting the impounding of stray cattle and action
against the menace.
Recently, the Department of Urban Development instructed all Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) to comply with Supreme Court orders on controlling stray cattle, dogs and other animals. ULBs have been told to coordinate with the Transport Department, Public Works Department and NHAI to remove animals from state highways, national highways and expressways; identify vulnerable stretches; conduct joint removal drives; relocate animals to shelters or gaushalas; ensure patrol surveillance; and hold officials accountable for repeated lapses.
ULBs must submit detailed compliance reports by December 1, including mechanisms for removal and sheltering, patrol functioning, helpline operations and installation
of signboards.
