Team Goemkarponn
CANACONA: In yet another tragic incident caused by stray cattle menace, a 57-year-old scooter rider lost his life after colliding with cattle on the old NH-17 at Khalwadem in the Shristhal panchayat area late Monday evening.
The deceased, identified as Eulegio Fernandes, a resident of Bhatpal, was reportedly riding his scooter (GA10 D3880) towards Canacona when a group of cattle suddenly ran onto the road.
In an attempt to avoid them, his vehicle hit one of the animals, causing him to fall and suffer critical injuries.
Local residents rushed to his aid and shifted him to the Community Health Centre (CHC) in Canacona. However, despite efforts by medical personnel, Fernandes succumbed to his injuries shortly after.
Residents expressed frustration over the recurring problem of stray cattle and dogs on roads across the taluka.
While acknowledging that animals cannot be blamed, they criticized local authorities for failing to address the ongoing menace.
They also pointed fingers at cattle owners who allow their animals to roam freely, especially at night, and questioned the effectiveness of Gaushalas, which they claim are not fulfilling their responsibility of managing stray cattle.
The problem persists across internal roads, major district roads (MDR), and national highways in the Canacona taluka, with both panchayats and the Canacona municipal authorities struggling to find effective solutions.
Locals have called for urgent action and stricter enforcement to prevent further loss of life due to this growing hazard.
