Koraput: Jeypore Municipality has decided to launch a fresh drive against stray cattle that have become a menace for commuters in the town from August 1.

"Stray cows and buffaloes have become a menace for residents and commuters across the town as the owners leave their cattle in the market area instead of confining them to the cow-shed. Apart from creating problems at the market, the animals create traffic problems," said Sanjay Acharya, executive officer of the Jeypore Municipality.

The municipality has now entered into an agreement with a private party to catch and keep the cattle at the latter's shelter.

"A two-member bovine squad of the municipality will accompany members of the private party to spot stray cattle," said the executive officer of the civic body.

"The squad will lift the animals found on the national highway passing through the town, streets and market areas and those will be kept at the cowshed of the private party," he said.