Goa, Aug. 16 -- As the Supreme Court of India issues strong directives to the Delhi government on controlling stray dogs in the NCR, Goa is battling a parallel but less-publicised hazard - stray cattle obstructing roads, disrupting traffic and causing fatal accidents. Both issues, rooted in neglect and weak enforcement, reflect a larger governance failure in managing abandoned animals.

Taking a cue from the SC's orders, the Goa government has formed a three-member task force to address the stray dog menace. But while action on canines has gained urgency, the stray cattle crisis remains unaddressed - despite its visible and daily impact on road safety, particularly for two-wheeler riders.

Animal welfare groups say the situation has worse...