The famed Ongole bull breed, known for tough farming jobs like ploughing and cart-pulling, is now at risk of extinction. Increasing mechanisation has replaced the bulls on farms, making them less useful. The breed was also known to be costly and needed lots of labour. Once, raising Ongole bulls was a matter of pride for industrialists, doctors, and politicians. Today, locals say these bulls are mainly kept for show at political events or state competitions. Renowned ophthalmologist Chunchu Chalamaiah, who owns Ongole cattle, said, "Ongole cattle used to be famous for drought pulling, milk and beef (abroad). However, the introduction of exotic breeds helped the dairy industry flourish, which led to dwindling of Ongole breed’s numbers." To honor this iconic breed, the Ongole Municipal Corporation has placed statues of the Ongole bull across the city. This is part of a beautification project marking the 57th Prakasam District Formation Day on February 2, 2026.