Cattle roaming Komani streets raise safety fears as residents demand action

Cattle roaming freely through the streets of Komani continue to frustrate residents and motorists, with many describing the situation as “dangerous”, “uncontrollable”, and “a disaster waiting to happen”. The issue, which has persisted for years, now extends into the town’s busiest roads — including Cathcart Road, Komani’s primary thoroughfare — raising serious concerns about public safety and municipal enforcement.

The animals are regularly seen wandering near schools, residential areas, taxi routes, and the Central Business District (CBD). At night, the danger increases dramatically as visibility drops and cattle move unpredictably between roads, pavements, and open public spaces.

Residents Warn of Growing Danger on Komani’s Roads

Multiple residents say driving in Komani has become increasingly hazardous because of livestock blocking intersections, lying on verges, or suddenly stepping into the road.

One resident shared the daily risk motorists face, saying “driving in Komani is already tricky especially now with cattle all over the roads. Night-time drives to any area of town can be an accident waiting to happen.”

Others questioned why the problem continues without visible long-term intervention. Another frustrated community member asked “why are farmers from some areas allowed to bring their cattle into town to feed on the grass of the park area and defecate all over the place?”

The complaints are not only about traffic risks. Livestock entering private properties have caused damage to gardens and trees, with one homeowner reporting: “cows literally come into my yard and eat up my trees. Why is the municipality doing nothing?”

These frustrations echo a much broader concern: that livestock owners are not being held accountable, and enforcement is inconsistently applied.

Cattle Seen in High-Traffic Zones and the CBD

Komani News has received reports and video footage of cattle walking along key roads, including:

• Cathcart Road (Main Street)

• Ebden Street

• Victoria Park

• Ezibeleni routes

• Komani CBD intersections

In some cases, motorists had to brake suddenly to avoid collisions. Residents say the risk is highest during evening hours, early mornings, and weekends when oversight appears limited.

For parents, the sight of cattle near schools and busy pedestrian areas is particularly alarming. Some say it is only a matter of time before a serious accident occurs.

Municipality Responds: Animal Control Team, Pound, and New Truck Expected

In response to questions from Komani News, the Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality confirmed that animal control falls directly under the municipality’s responsibility, and that a designated team and facility are in place.

According to the municipality:

• A new animal pound facility has been operational since 2024, replacing the smaller Westbourne facility.

• Municipal staff are deployed to impound cattle whenever they are spotted or formally reported.

• A Council-approved tariff book is used to impose penalties on livestock owners.

• The municipality is awaiting delivery of a new truck intended to improve animal control operations.

• Farmers are urged to take greater responsibility for their livestock to avoid nuisance and potential accidents.

The municipality maintains that livestock roaming within town limits are impounded and kept at the municipal pound until owners settle penalties and reclaim their animals.

Farmers’ Role Under Scrutiny

While the municipality says processes are in place, residents argue that enforcement appears inconsistent or too slow to make a lasting difference. Some believe that penalties alone are not enough and that tighter monitoring is required to prevent cattle from re-entering urban zones after release.

Observers say that grazing cattle inside Komani suggests that some owners may be deliberately allowing livestock to feed on municipal green spaces, including the Komani Park area — a practice residents describe as disrespectful and unhygienic.

The municipality, however, did not comment on whether cattle entering town are linked to specific farming communities or rural areas. It also did not confirm whether tracing ownership of roaming cattle is always possible.

A Call for Stronger Enforcement and Long-Term Solutions

Residents are calling for:

• More frequent patrols, especially at night

• Quicker response when animals are reported

• Clearer communication with livestock owners

• Stronger penalties for repeat offenders

• Protection of residential properties

• A public awareness campaign around livestock safety

Some also believe the municipality should publish updated guidelines and bylaws for public reference so residents understand their rights, reporting procedures, and what action should be expected.

With Komani experiencing increasing traffic volumes, especially on Cathcart Road, motorists fear the current situation will soon lead to a major collision or pedestrian injury.

Ongoing Monitoring

Komani News will continue to monitor the situation, follow up on the municipality’s promised new truck delivery, and assess whether enforcement improves over the coming months. Residents are encouraged to send clear photos, videos, or location details when reporting roaming livestock.

For now, the community remains united in calling for decisive action before the problem escalates further.