Tarun Karthick
Campbell Bay, 07 July 2023
The roads of Great Nicobar Island, particularly in the vicinity of the Campbell Bay Bazaar area, continue to be infested with cattle, causing a grave hazard for motorists. The irresponsible behaviour of cattle owners who allow their livestock to roam freely on the roads has exacerbated the problem. Despite the growing concerns, both cattle owners and the authorities seem to have turned a blind eye to the potential consequences.
The cattle owners, driven solely by reaping the benefits from their livestock, have consistently neglected their duty to care for their animals. This lack of responsibility has resulted in a significant safety issue for motorists who must contend with stray cattle while driving. The roads of Great Nicobar Island have become a potential hotbed for accidents.
The dire situation has prompted worries that if the negligence of these cattle owners persists, it may ultimately lead to loss of life. Many small accidents have already occurred as a direct result of the cattle-infested roads.
Compounding the issue is the lack of action from the responsible authorities. Despite their obligation to ensure the safety of the roads, they have failed to address the ongoing problem and have seemingly abandoned their duty to hold cattle owners accountable for their negligence.
The unique dilemma facing Great Nicobar Island is the collective failure of both cattle owners and the authorities to make the roads safer for motorists. The absence of comprehensive documentation and effective measures to tackle this persistent issue raises serious concerns about the well-being of residents and visitors alike.
Local residents are now demanding urgent action from the authorities to rectify the situation. They emphasise the need for robust regulations that enforce the responsibilities of cattle owners to ensure the safety of both their livestock and the general public. Simultaneously, calls are growing louder for the responsible authorities to fulfil their obligations by implementing measures that will mitigate the risks associated with cattle-infested roads.
As the situation on Great Nicobar Island intensifies, it is crucial for all stakeholders to work together to address the root causes of this problem. The welfare of both motorists and livestock depends on the swift action and effective coordination between cattle owners, the authorities, and concerned community members. Only through collective effort and responsible action can the roads of Great Nicobar Island become safer for all.