2% of Chennai’s cattle microchipped so far, corporation to tighten enforcement, issue fines on defaulters

Chennai: With barely 500 of the city's 22,875 cattle microchipped so far, around 2%, Greater Chennai Corporation has intensified enforcement ahead of the March 18 deadline. The civic body has warned of stricter penalties against owners who fail to comply with the licensing and identification norms.Officials said poor compliance from cattle owners has slowed the implementation of the drive. In 2024 and 2025 alone, GCC seized 4,237 stray cattle and collected 2.22 crore in penalties following multiple incidents involving stray cattle attacks. Despite these measures, cattle continue to stray onto busy roads, endangering motorists and pedestrians. To address this, GCC made microchipping and licensing compulsory within city limits in Jan 2026. "We have microchipped 500 heads of cattle that were impounded and housed in modern cattle sheds at Tiruvottiyur, Manali, Madhavaram, Anna Nagar and Teynampet. Cattle owners are required to apply for licences through GCC's official website, but response has been poor," said GCC veterinary officer J Kamal Hussain. He added that zonal teams comprising veterinary officers, supervisors and cattle catchers will conduct inspections at locations where cattle are frequently found. Spot licensing and on-site microchipping will be carried out to improve compliance."Owners who fail to register their cattle will face penalties, seizure of animals and continued monitoring, until compliance is ensured," Hussain said. The penalty amount is yet to be finalised.Cattle owners have raised concerns over the implementation of the policy. "The rule was introduced without adequate consultation. There is apprehension that the microchip may harm the cattle, and no clear assurance has been given. There is also confusion regarding licence transfers when ownership changes," said Thanga Shanthakumar, president of Livestock Development Association.