Godavari municipality begins management of over 200 stray cattle

Dhangadhi: Godavari Municipality in Kailali has started managing stray cattle by relocating them to its own cowshed from today, addressing a longstanding issue in the Terai districts.

The initiative was launched at the systematically constructed cowshed located within the Goladevi Community Forest premises in Ward No. 7. From Thursday morning, with the active participation of municipal police, employees, the cowshed management team, and locals, cattle wandering on the roads were safely moved into the facility.

In the first phase, more than 200 cattle have been managed from Attariya Bus Park, Godavari Road, Attariya Chowk, Chowki Dada road section, and the Dhangadhi line road, said Municipal Police Chief Sandhu Chaudhary. For years, locals have faced problems such as road accidents, crop damage, and foul odors caused by stray and dead animals.

Godavari Municipality, recognized as the provincial capital of Sudurpaschim Province, built the well-organized cowshed in collaboration with the provincial government.

Mayor Birendra Bhatta said the cowshed was part of a long-term plan initiated two years ago. “Farmers are facing a shortage of manure. The cowshed will also contribute to agriculture by providing manure and urine,” he said, adding that spiritual leader Yogi Pitambar had also supported the need for such a facility.

“Cows are our national animal and are worshipped in Hindu tradition, yet it has been disheartening to see them neglected on the roads. Although we are late, our goal is to protect cows, utilize their feces and urine, and create employment through the cowshed,” Mayor Bhatta added.

The municipality expects the cowshed to play a vital role in protecting cows, supplying manure and urine to the agricultural sector, generating employment, and systematically managing stray animals within the city. The initiative reflects Godavari Municipality’s commitment to public welfare and sustainable development.