Panchkula | October 26, 2026: Panchkula’s drive to remove stray cattle from public roads has slowed sharply as existing gaushalas reach capacity, raising fresh concerns about traffic safety, sanitation and the municipal corporation’s ability to respond to complaints. A report published by The Times of India on Monday says the city’s cattle-catching operations have largely stalled because shelters have insufficient space to accommodate additional animals.
Why Panchkula’s stray cattle problem has intensified
The city had previously set an August 31 deadline to make roads free of stray cattle, but more than a year later the problem persists, according to the report. Residents describe animals on roads, parks, parking areas, open grounds and even stretches of national highways. The issue is particularly serious for two-wheeler riders and motorists who may encounter animals unexpectedly, especially after dark.
The municipal corporation’s ability to remove animals is linked to the availability of space at shelters. Without sufficient capacity, cattle-catching teams have limited options for relocating the animals safely and sustainably.
Residents raise safety and sanitation concerns
Mohit Gupta, associated with the Sahyog residents’ group in Sector 25, told the newspaper that routine cattle-catching teams were not operating because gaushalas were full, with teams reportedly responding mainly to urgent cases. He flagged concerns in the trans-Ghaggar sectors and on major roads.
SK Nayar, president of the Panchkula Citizens Welfare Association, also raised concerns about cattle moving through industrial and residential areas and feeding around waste collection points. These are statements attributed to residents in the published report; Speedy Clicks News Room has not independently inspected the locations.
Proposed Nandishala remains at tender stage
The civic body has floated tenders for a dedicated Nandishala, intended to provide space for bulls and help address the shelter shortage. However, the project had not moved beyond the bidding stage as of the newspaper’s October 26 report. No verified completion date or operational capacity was provided in the source.
The difference between announcing new shelter infrastructure and making it operational matters: road-clearing efforts depend on places where captured animals can actually be housed and cared for.
What should Panchkula MC prioritise?
Residents need a clear picture of current shelter capacity, the timetable for the proposed Nandishala, how urgent road hazards are handled and whether complaint closures correspond to animals being removed. The city must also balance public safety with humane animal handling and adequate shelter conditions.
Waste management is part of the problem. Open garbage and feeding around busy roadways can attract cattle back into public spaces even after a temporary removal drive.
Why this matters for Panchkula commuters
Stray cattle can create sudden obstructions for traffic, with heightened risks for pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists. The civic challenge is not simply capturing animals once; it is developing enough shelter space, consistent enforcement and sustained prevention to keep roads safer.
Frequently asked questions
Why has Panchkula’s cattle-catching drive slowed?
According to reporting dated October 26, the municipal corporation’s existing gaushalas are full, limiting its ability to accommodate captured cattle.
Is a new cattle shelter being planned?
Yes. A dedicated Nandishala has been proposed and tenders floated, but the project was still at the bidding stage when reported.
Which areas are affected?
Residents have reported concerns in trans-Ghaggar sectors, industrial and residential neighbourhoods, and on major roads.
Source: The Times of India, October 26, 2026. This article independently synthesises and contextualises the reported facts; it does not claim on-site reporting.