Daijiworld Media Network - Curchorem

Curchorem, May 24: Residents of Curchorem-Cacora have raised concerns over the growing menace of stray buffaloes, alleging that the animals are damaging crops and posing a serious threat to road safety in the town.

Locals said herds of stray buffaloes have been roaming through various parts of the town over the past several nights, particularly along the stretch from Ambedkar Chowk towards Baagwada and Shirfod.

According to residents, plantations and crops, including banana farms, have suffered significant damage due to the animals.

A resident, Tushar Suresh Kudchadkar, reportedly incurred major losses after buffaloes damaged his plantation in the Baag area.

Residents also expressed concern over road safety hazards, especially near Ambedkar Circle, where buffaloes have frequently been seen wandering onto roads during night hours.

“Buffaloes suddenly jump onto the road. It is an open invitation for accidental death,” a resident said, pointing out that many youngsters travel on two-wheelers during early mornings and late nights.

Locals said the roads near the circle are often littered with cow dung and water due to the presence of the animals, increasing the risk of accidents.

As an interim solution, residents have suggested installing protective nets along both sides of roads leading to Ambedkar Circle to prevent the buffaloes from straying onto the roads.

Under the Goa Municipalities Act, designated pound keepers are responsible for impounding stray cattle within municipal limits to ensure public safety and smooth traffic movement.

Residents have urged the Curchorem-Cacora Municipal Council to take immediate steps to address the issue.