The standard operating procedures laid out by the ministry comes after the Supreme Court directive to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) in 2025 to devise a structured mechanism for the safe removal and coordination of stray animals on NHs and Expressways. As per the SOPs, the national highway agencies will be responsible for removal of stray cattle and other animals from NHs, and their transportation to a shelter or pound or gaushala, designated by the state government for the purpose as applicable while the state, district or local administration will be responsible for identification, establishment and maintenance of shelter or pound.
