Renuka Yallamma Temple zone to go stray-animal free

Belagavi: Amid rising complaints over stray animal menace, the Shri Renuka Yallamma Temple Development Authority has decided to initiate strict measures to ensure the safety and convenience of devotees visiting the renowned shrine in Savadatti taluk.The authority said it has received several complaints from pilgrims citing serious inconvenience caused by cattle and other animals roaming freely on the temple premises and across the Savadatti hill region. Officials noted that the problem has worsened in recent months, prompting the administration to issue a warning to animal owners.In a public notice, the authority stated that over one million devotees visit the Shri Renuka Yallamma Temple annually. However, unchecked movement of animals in and around the temple complex has reportedly led to incidents in which devotees were knocked down or attacked. This has created fear among pilgrims, particularly women, senior citizens and children, affecting their sense of safety during darshan.Officials said devotees often panic when animals turn aggressive, increasing the risk of accidents. The presence of stray animals has also affected cleanliness and overall discipline at the shrine.Authority secretary Prabhavati Fakirpur has directed animal owners to remove their cattle from the temple and surrounding areas within seven days. After the deadline, the animals will be treated as strays and action will be initiated under public nuisance laws, including confiscation.The authority clarified that the drive aims to ensure safety, hygiene and smooth movement of devotees, especially during peak days and the Yallamma fair.