Spike in stray cattle complaints, from 170 to 220 per month, disrupts Bengaluru roads

Bengaluru is witnessing a sharp surge in incidents involving stray cattle disrupting traffic and endangering commuters, with complaints reaching new highs in recent months. According to officials from the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike’s (BBMP) Animal Husbandry Department, the number of public grievances has increased from an average of 170-180 per month last year to over 220 in recent months.

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Between January and May this year, BBMP impounded more than 1,000 stray cattle and collected fines totaling over ₹4.86 lakh from owners. In contrast, all of 2024 saw fewer than 1,500 reported cases. The complaints are primarily registered through the civic body’s helpline and mobile app.

The presence of unattended cattle continues to pose serious risks, especially for motorists and pedestrians navigating narrow or rain-slicked roads.

BBMP notes that most of the cattle found on roads have identifiable owners. The animals are often fed perishable items like fruits and vegetables, which results in slippery dung, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Despite ongoing enforcement measures, civic authorities acknowledge that penalties under the Karnataka Cattle Trespass Act, 1966—capped at ₹600—are outdated and insufficient to deter repeat violations. As stray cattle incidents continue to climb, the need for stricter regulations and improved enforcement mechanisms is becoming increasingly urgent.