Team Goemkarponn
CANACONA: In a spate of road accidents, six buffaloes, including two pregnant and two male buffaloes, were killed within four days last week on the Manohar Parrikar Canacona Bypass Road (NH66) between Char-Rasta and Kolsar (Galgibaga).
According to sources, four buffaloes — two pregnant and two male — were killed late Friday night after being hit by heavy vehicles at Bhagatwada near Char-Rasta. Two more had been found dead two days earlier after being run over at Kolsar. Several vehicles involved in the accidents reportedly sustained extensive damage.
Locals said the menace of cattle straying onto the bypass remains unchecked. During the day, buffaloes graze along the greenery on either side of the highway, but at night they tend to rest in the middle of the unlit lanes, posing a serious risk to motorists. “It’s not only dangerous for the cattle but also for two-wheelers and cars. Poor illumination leaves dark patches where animals are barely visible until it’s too late,” said local resident Vaibhav Phaldesai.
After Friday’s accidents, youths from nearby areas, including Phaldesai, rushed to the spot and helped move the carcasses off the road to prevent further mishaps. They narrowly escaped being hit by a speeding car while pulling one of the buffaloes aside. A police official and others later assisted, and on Saturday a JCB was engaged to dispose of the carcasses.
Residents have called for urgent measures such as improved road lighting and stricter action against stray cattle on highways to prevent further tragedies.
