Journal of Psychology and Psychiatry

ABSTRACT

Stray animals on highways have emerged as an increasingly visible and hazardous dimension of road safety in Madhya Pradesh. This article explores the religious, socio-cultural, and economic factors that contribute to the rise in cattle-related road accidents, critically analyses existing policy responses, and proposes holistic strategies for mitigation. Through an integration of secondary data, policy review, and behavioural insights, the paper highlights that reverence-driven cattle abandonment, diminishing pasture lands, and fragmented institutional responsibilities have precipitated a situation wherein road corridors double up as unintended animal shelters. Approximately 20% of the state’s bovine population is non-productive and vulnerable to becoming stray, presenting constant risks to commuters and freight networks. Although government interventions such as the National Livestock Mission and Gau Seva Mission indicate intent, gaps remain in enforcement, community engagement, budgetary priority, and behavioural change communication. The article concludes by recommending a multi-layered strategy encompassing fodder security, veterinary care, livestock traceability, local governance participation and behavioural nudges to ensure sustainable coexistence of livestock- based livelihoods and road safety imperatives in Madhya Pradesh.

Keywords: Stray Animals; Road Safety; Madhya Pradesh; Livestock Management; Policy Interventions; Behavioural Change.