PUNE: The Regional Transport Office (RTO) of Pune has made it compulsory to carry proof of certificate issued by the Animal Welfare Board of India for transportation of animals (cattle). The decision was taken after the amendment to the Motor Vehicles Act 1989, section 125 (E).

According to an RTO official, a notification regarding the transportation of animals was issued recently. 

After the amendment to the Central Motor Vehicles 1989, section 125 (E), the government has notified stricter rules for livestock transportation and has made it mandatory for such vehicles to have special licences, a move aimed at curbing cruelty against animals, said a notification.

According to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animal (Transport of Animal on Foot) Rules 2001, Rule 96, the owner should carry a certificate issued by the Animal Welfare Board of India, along with Central government authorised officer or welfare organisation. If the owner is not carrying the certificate, the animals cannot be transported, said a senior officer of RTO.

In the recent past, there have been some cases reported of illegal transportation of animals across the country. Several cases of mob lynching were registered after false allegations were made regarding illegal transport of the animals.