50 kg plastic waste removed from cow's stomach in Madurai

MADURAI: Government veterinary doctors in Madurai have removed 50 kilograms of plastic waste from a cow's stomach during surgery and was discharged from the government polyclinic on Friday.
R Pandi, a local cattle owner of Karuppayurani, had brought his cow to the hospital three days before as the animal had not been drinking water or eating anything for several days together. Following tests and physical examinations, the doctors learned that the cow's stomach was filled with plastic and metal waste. Doctors led by chief clinical veterinarian Dr Vairavasamy performed surgery and removed foreign objects from the cow's stomach.
The chief veterinarian said, "As all the waste had rolled up and remained as a single massive piece in her stomach, we spent three hours removing it carefully. The 50 kilograms of indigestible waste consisting mainly of plastic bags and other minor wastes including metal objects like coins, rings and chains were taken out. Following a 72-hour observation period, the animal has again started to consume food."
Speaking about the repeated incidence of plastic waste accumulation in cow's stomach and consequent surgery, Mayur Hasija, an animal activist said that the city corporation should take strict measures to prevent cattle from straying on roads and consuming waste. "Animal feeding by the public should also be controlled as it is one of the main reasons for the cattle owners to let their cattle stray on the road," said Hasija.