Chandigarh: The municipal corporation, Chandigarh, has invited religious and charitable organisations to take over the operation and maintenance of its gaushala at Raipur Kalan, the largest such facility in the city with a capacity of over 700 cattle.The civic body has floated a detailed Expression of Interest (EOI) for organisations interested in managing the facility. Applications must be submitted physically by Sept 19. The EOI document can be accessed through the MC’s official website.Under the proposed arrangement, the selected organisation will be responsible for the complete management of the gaushala, including feeding of cattle, veterinary care, sanitation, hygiene, security, cattle management and upkeep of the premises. The organisation will be required to run the facility using its own resources and without any operational payment from the MC.The corporation will bear only the water and electricity charges incurred at the gaushala, with the amount subject to revision from time to time.According to the EOI conditions, the selected agency must deploy adequate manpower and resources to ensure round-the-clock care and management of the cattle. The contract will initially be awarded for three years and may be extended annually for up to two more years, depending on performance and at the discretion of the competent authority.To qualify, applicants must meet prescribed registration, financial, Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) and experience requirements. They must also have prior experience of operating and maintaining a gaushala housing at least 50 cattle.The move follows discussions during a recent MC house meeting, where councillors suggested exploring the possibility of engaging religious or charitable organisations to manage the facility. The gaushala is currently being operated and maintained by the civic body.
