Development of Improved Carts with Brake for Draught Animals of Jharkhand State

A bullock cart with brake system has been designed and developed by Birsa Agricultural University, Ranchi suitable for the draft capacity of Jharkhand state. Due to undulating topography, it has been observed that during downward movement of the cart from one field to other, there is a possibility of overturning of the cart. This is only due to difference in speed of cart wheels. Similarly, during upward movement also there is a problem of returning back of the cart. In both (downward and upward) movement, animals are getting drudgery. It is very difficult to control the animals in these situations. Individual brakes has been provided on both wheels and operated by the operator's leg as well as by hand individually as per requirement. The bullock carts are made of steel and its total weight is about 100 kg. All parts are tightened with nut and bolts, so that after use it can be detached. The bullock cart was tested both on tar road and murrum road for carrying the goods using a pair of bullock. The physiological response of bullocks were noted and anlysed. The steel cart is capable to carry load upto 5 quintals safely. The performance of the bullock cart powered by bullock power was satisfactory.