Nagpur has long struggled with stray cattle and illegal cattle sheds, leading to sanitation issues, traffic disruptions, and public safety hazards. To tackle this, the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) launched the Nandgram project, a 19-hectare cattle shelter near Bhandewadi, aimed at relocating unclaimed cattle and dismantling unauthorized sheds. The ₹104 crore initiative seeks to improve urban hygiene, safety, and animal welfare.
Illegal cattle sheds have been a growing problem in the city, with over 1,043 unauthorized structures still operational. A tragic fire in one such shed killed 14 calves, prompting public outrage and stricter NMC crackdowns in areas like Dhantoli and Chandak Layout. However, enforcement alone is not enough, making Nandgram a crucial solution.
The first phase, costing ₹80.74 crore, includes 70 cattle sheds, with 33 already under construction, set for completion by August 2025. The shelter will house 3,520 cattle, including those from demolished illegal sheds and stray animals. Facilities include perimeter fencing (₹2.5 crore), cooling fans, LED lighting, a bio-gas plant, and a wastewater treatment facility.
Nagpur’s streets have been overrun by ownerless cattle, causing accidents. The NMC impounded only 277 stray cattle in four months, highlighting the need for a long-term fix. With proper infrastructure, security, and care, Nandgram aims to make Nagpur cleaner, safer, and free from stray cattle issues.