The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has set an August-end deadline to relocate all suburban cattle sheds to a newly developed facility in Dapchari, Palghar district. Final notices have been issued to shed owners, directing them to vacate their existing premises to facilitate the shift. The civic body stated that the move is aimed at improving public health conditions, reducing traffic congestion, and freeing up urban space currently occupied by scattered cattle sheds in densely populated suburban areas.
The Dapchari facility has been designed as a dedicated cattle-rearing hub, equipped with proper sheds, waste management systems, and veterinary care facilities. Spread across a large area, it will centralise livestock operations and ensure they are managed in a regulated, hygienic environment. Officials have confirmed that each relocated cattle shed owner will be allotted space at the new site, with access to essential amenities to support day-to-day operations. The decision to relocate has been in the works for several years as part of the civic administration’s broader urban planning and sanitation strategy. The presence of cattle sheds within city limits has often led to challenges such as waste accumulation, foul odour, unhygienic conditions, and increased risk of disease transmission.
In addition, free-roaming cattle and transportation of livestock in busy areas have contributed to traffic bottlenecks and occasional road accidents. By moving all such operations to Dapchari, the BMC aims to address these concerns while also providing a dedicated space where cattle-rearing can be carried out efficiently and under proper regulation. Civic authorities have made it clear that the August deadline will be strictly enforced, with no extensions planned. After the cut-off date, any cattle sheds still operating within suburban limits will face legal action, including possible demolition of unauthorised structures. The BMC has also deployed enforcement teams to ensure compliance and is closely monitoring the progress of relocation.
For shed owners, the civic body is offering logistical assistance to move livestock and equipment to the new site, and officials claim they have been in constant communication to ensure a smooth transition. The Dapchari cattle hub is expected to significantly improve both urban cleanliness and rural economic activity. For Mumbai residents, the removal of cattle sheds from densely populated neighbourhoods is anticipated to enhance hygiene, reduce odour and waste-related issues, and ease local traffic movement. For shed owners, the consolidated facility offers the opportunity to operate in an environment specifically designed for their trade, with better infrastructure and regulatory support.
Civic officials believe this project will serve as a model for balancing urban development with traditional livelihoods, ensuring that both the city’s growth and the needs of the cattle-rearing community are addressed in a sustainable manner. With the final relocation date fast approaching, BMC is urging all stakeholders to comply promptly, reiterating that the deadline will not be pushed further.
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