Supreme Court Seeks Action on Stray Cattle on Highways; May Frame Guidelines to Prevent Highway Accidents

The Sureme Court has sought responses from Centre and states on a plea to prevent stray cattle on highways. It highlighted lack of action despite cow cess collection and may introduce strict national guidelines to improve road safety.

Supreme Court of India (Image Source: Internet)

New Delhi: The Supreme Court of India, while hearing an important petition on Monday, has sought answers from the central government, states, and other concerned institutions. This petition was filed regarding the problem of stray cattle on national and state highways across the country, reports Dynamite News correspondent.

What did the court say?

Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta, included in the bench, have issued a notice and sought a reply within four weeks.

During the hearing, the court also remarked that many states are collecting up to 10% tax in the name of “cow cess," but no concrete work is being done on the ground.

What is sought in the petition?

Several important demands have been made in the petition:

• Uniform guidelines at the national level to stop stray cattle on highways and expressways
• Mandatory fencing in accident-prone areas
• Establishment of scientifically operated cow sheds
• Strict punishment for those who abandon cattle
• Compensation system for victims of accidents (no-fault compensation)

What does NHAI say?

On behalf of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), the court was told that the decision has already been reserved in the case related to stray dogs, which also includes the issue of stray animals. However, the petitioner says that there are some separate issues related to cattle, on which special instructions are necessary.

What orders have already been placed?

• The court has already shown a strict stance on this issue.
• Order to remove stray dogs and keep them in a shelter.
• Instructions to remove all stray animals from highways and expressways.
• Suggestion to road construction companies to build cow sheds under CSR.

Why is this issue serious?

Many road accidents occur every year due to stray cattle on the highway. This is becoming a threat not only to the lives of drivers but also to the lives of passengers.

Therefore, the Supreme Court is now moving towards taking strict steps for a permanent solution to this problem.

Now all the states and the Center will have to reply within four weeks. After this, the court can issue major guidelines in this matter so that road safety can be strengthened across the country.