The people of Phuentshogling will miss the crocodiles that have been a part of their community for many years, as forest officials today successfully relocated the reptiles to Gelephu. The decision to relocate the crocodiles was made to provide them with a larger and more suitable habitat, given the limited space in Phuentshogling.
The Crocodile Breeding Centre is situated behind the Phuentshogling bus terminal and has been operating since the late 1970s. It is considered one of the main attractions of Phuentshogling and holds a special place in the hearts of local residents due to the many memories associated with it.
Furthermore, the Centre plays a vital role in boosting tourism in the area.
The centre is home to two distinct species of crocodiles – the gharials, which are considered critically endangered, and the mugger crocodile. The gharials are recognized by their olive colour and long, narrow snouts. The mugger crocodile, on the other hand, is a more common species of crocodile.
Recently, the Phuentshogling Thromde had written to the forest department expressing their interest in retaining some of the crocodiles for the purpose of tourism.
“This type of crocodile is not found in many places, so many people come to visit it. For the town to attract tourists, there must be such attractive facilities or reasons. A business-oriented town alone cannot become a sustainable town. Tourism is a must,” said Uttar Kumar Rai, Phuentshogling Thrompon.
The Thrompon acknowledged that while tourists come to see the crocodiles, it was necessary to relocate them to a new habitat with better facilities.
“The forest department wants to shift the centre to Gelephu. The place here is small and congested. Moreover, with the construction of the four-lane road, the area of the crocodile farm has become smaller. The centre needs relocating. But we want to at least retain a few numbers. So, we have submitted a letter to the department not to relocate all,” added Thrompon.
In the event that the crocodiles were to be relocated within Phuentshogling, the Thromde has identified a potential new habitat for them in Khariphu, along the Om Chhu.
Currently, there are ten Gharials and four Mugger crocodiles. Today the forest officials have taken all these crocodiles from Phuentshogling to Gelephu.
Kinley Dem, Phuentshogling
Edited by Sherub Dorji
