Vikramaditya
Port Blair, July 04: Despite the Administration’s claim to transform Port Blair into a smart city, the presence of stray animals on the roads remains a pressing issue. Cows, goats, buffaloes, and pigs can be seen in large numbers throughout the day and night, causing inconvenience and safety concerns for commuters. Particularly, the areas of Prem Nagar, Dilanpur, and Junglighat are grappling with the free movement of pigs, leading to accidents and unhygienic conditions.
Residents and commuters in the affected areas have expressed their distress over the growing number of accidents caused by stray animals.
Complaints have been raised regarding the lack of attention from PBMC in addressing the issue. The problem is aggravated by pigs roaming freely in the Prem Nagar and Dilanpur areas, causing a nuisance and making the surroundings appear filthy. Residents report that stray pigs often enter their houses, spreading dirt and germs, leading to health concerns.
As the Secretary PBMC is not available to media, despite several attempt, Andaman Sheekha Daily contacted Vice Chairperson Mr. Dharmender Narayan for a comment in this regard. Mr. Narayan claimed that the Port Blair Municipal Council (PBMC) is taking steps to control the stray animal menace. While progress has been made in reducing the number of stray animals in open areas, some individuals persist in allowing their animals to roam freely, despite repeated fines and warnings. Narayan urged citizens to report instances of stray animals and irresponsible garbage dumping by using the Swachhata (Cleanliness) App, where photos of garbage dumps and overflowing bins can be submitted.
Many believe that due to vote bank policies, many political leaders are against imposing heavy fines on owners of cattle roaming freely in the city, which is the root cause of this problem. Islanders urge the Chief Secretary to order a 100 times increase in the fine for the owners of animals, for leaving stray animals on the road. Islanders believe that if this is done, in one week Port Blair city roads will be free from stray animals menace.
