Amerat – The wilayat of Amerat in Muscat is grappling with an increasing problem of stray donkeys, raising concerns over public safety, traffic disruptions and the community’s image.

Despite the municipality’s efforts to manage stray animals, the presence of donkeys roaming streets and rummaging through garbage has become a significant issue for residents.

Highlighting the safety risks posed by stray donkeys on roads, Amerat resident Bader al Siyabi, said, “Unfortunately, the presence of donkeys on roads continues to be a serious problem, causing frequent accidents. One of my neighbours recently hit a donkey while driving, resulting in significant damage to his car. His daughter, who was in the car, sustained injuries,” he said.

Siyabi urged authorities to take swift and effective measures to address the issue.

Khalid al Nabhani, another resident, expressed concern over the impact on Amerat’s image. He explained that the widespread presence of stray donkeys has drawn ridicule on social media, with users mocking the situation. “This mockery only worsens the situation, affecting the morale and reputation of the community,” Nabhani said.

Suggestions to tackle the problem have come from community members like Younis al Rabkhi, who proposed a range of solutions. “I suggest implementing measures such as installing barriers to prevent animals from wandering onto roads, putting up more warning signs for drivers, and running awareness campaigns for both drivers and animal breeders.”

Rabkhi also recommended collaborating with local farmers to round up stray donkeys and relocating these to designated areas where they can be safely managed.

Amerat-based veterinarian Dr Mohammed Mansour offered additional insights into the problem. While advocating animal welfare, he emphasised the dangers stray donkeys pose to people and property. “Braying stray donkeys disturb residents at night and cause accidents on the roads. There have been numerous incidents where donkeys have come in the way of cars, leading to serious accidents,” he said.

Dr Mansour proposed two possible solutions – establishment of a dedicated facility to treat and manage stray donkeys, which could be a costly endeavour, or relocation of the animals to nature reserves. He also suggested involving the public in addressing the problem by encouraging small financial contributions to support these initiatives.

The community’s concerns underscore the need for urgent action by local authorities to ensure safety, protect the welfare of animals and restore Amerat’s image as a thriving residential area.