PMC to Set Up Fodder Shelters and Drinking Water Tanks for Stray Cattle Ahead of Possible Alternate-Day Water Supply
PMC’s Standing Committee has approved temporary fodder shelters and public drinking water tanks for stray cattle, to be ready if Pune moves to alternate-day supply.
Photo: Photographer: Dey.sandip Additional Credit: User Atention fo / CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Pune, 6th November 2026: As Pune prepares for a possible switch to alternate-day water supply, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is also planning for its stray animals. The PMC Standing Committee on Thursday approved a proposal to set up temporary fodder shelters and drinking water points for stray and abandoned cattle across the city.
The proposal was moved by corporator and committee member Suhas Tingre, as reported by Punekar News.
What the proposal includes
- Temporary fodder shelters in areas with a high number of stray cattle
- Water containers and tanks at public places such as major junctions and open spaces
- Free drinking water at spots frequently visited by stray animals
- Participation of gaushala organisations, cow protection groups and animal welfare NGOs
- PMC to provide land, manpower and funds
Tingre has asked that the facilities start working from the first day of alternate-day supply, if the city moves to it.
Why now
With less water in taps, cattle that already roam the merged villages and the city’s edges are likely to wander further in search of water, onto busy roads. Earlier, after 32 villages merged into PMC limits, Tingre had proposed permanent gaushalas for abandoned cattle. The General Body approved that plan, but construction will take time, so the temporary shelters are meant to fill the gap.
How residents can help
In the meantime, keeping a bowl or tub of water outside a society gate or shop is a small but real help for animals in dry months. Report injured or sick stray animals to the PMC veterinary department or a local animal welfare group.
For the bigger picture on the city’s water, read our report on Pune’s water quota and the alternate-day supply plan and our tips for caring for street animals.
Frequently asked questions
What has PMC approved for stray cattle?
Temporary fodder shelters and drinking water tanks at public places for stray and abandoned cattle, approved by the Standing Committee.
When will the stray cattle water points start?
The proposer has asked that they start from the first day of alternate-day water supply. No start date has been announced.
Will PMC build permanent gaushalas?
A proposal for permanent gaushalas in the merged villages has General Body approval, but construction will take time.
