Stray cattle on Srisailam Highway raise safety concerns for commuters

Residents of Barkas, Errakunta and Shaheennagar have urged civic authorities to address the growing stray cattle menace on Srisailam Highway. They blame open garbage dumps for attracting the animals and warn that the situation poses a serious risk to commuters and the cattle.

HYDERABAD: The presence of stray cattle along the busy Srisailam Highway has become a major concern for commuters and residents in Barkas, Errakunta and Shaheennagar, with people complaining that the animals pose a serious risk to both motorists and pedestrians.

The highway, which witnesses heavy traffic throughout the day, is frequently obstructed by herds of cattle wandering onto the carriageway. Motorists said the animals often run across the road, forcing drivers to apply sudden brakes or swerve, increasing the possibility of accidents.

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Shaik Ismail, a resident of Bismillah Colony, said motorists have been facing the problem for a long time. “The cattle suddenly run onto the highway, leaving drivers with very little time to react. It is only a matter of time before a major accident occurs if the authorities do not intervene,” he fears.

Apart from endangering road users, the cattle themselves are at constant risk of being hit by speeding vehicles, especially during the night and early morning hours when visibility is poor due to inadequate lighting on the stretch.

Residents pointed to the unhygienic conditions that attract the animals. The stray cattle are often seen feeding on garbage dumped near the Mumtaz Bagh Electricity Sub-Station, the open ground adjacent to the graveyard on Errakunta Road, and along Shaheennagar Road.

“Availability of food waste at these locations encourages the cattle to remain in the area before straying onto the highway. The garbage dumps must also be cleared regularly to prevent the animals from gathering here,” demanded Shahana Begum, a school teacher who drives to her workplace on a two-wheeler.

Nadeem Hussain, a resident of Quba Colony, said the problem worsens during the evening hours when traffic is at its peak. “Two-wheelers and pedestrians are particularly vulnerable. Many commuters have had a narrow escape because of the cattle crossing the road unexpectedly. The civic authorities should shift the animals to shelters and prevent garbage from accumulating in open areas,” he said.

MA Aejaz, a businessman from Wadi-e-Salaheen, said the issue also reflected poor solid waste management. “The cattle feed on plastic and other waste from open garbage dumps, which is harmful to their health. Along with removing the stray cattle from the highway, the authorities must ensure the timely removal of garbage and prevent illegal dumping,” he said.