Post News Network
Khurda, Dec 21: Illegal trafficking of cattle has taken a heavy toll on livestock population in the district with as many as 15,000 cattle being trafficked from the district every month, according to sources.
The number of cattle in the district stood at 3,84,279 in 2007, according to data provided by the district headquarters veterinary office. However, the number has come down to 3,12,678 in 2012.
Khurda district has now been added to the list of districts such as Jagatsinghpur which have become the hub of illegal cattle trafficking. Hundreds of animals from these areas are forced to travel long distances to slaughterhouses both within and outside the state.The trafficking of cattle has been going on under the nose of the district administration, which does little to check it, sources alleged.
Police raids are just eyewash, said a trader on condition of anonymity. Police demand kickbacks from the traffickers and let them free after getting the money.
It is necessary to obtain permission from a local veterinary doctor and regional transport officer for transporting cattle, according to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act. Besides, a six-wheeler can carry six cattle, while a vehicle with 10 wheels can transport a maximum of 10 cattle. However, these norms are hardly followed, the sources claimed.
District chief veterinary officer Himadri Ray said no one takes his permission before transporting cattle.Cattle are being trafficked in five-six trucks to slaughterhouses after 11 pm every night, they said.Assistant regional transport officer Sukant Kumar Das said raids are being conducted regularly to check illegal transportation of cattle.
SP Dilip Kumar Das rubbished allegations of police not taking action against traffickers after taking kickback from them.
