Safety is becoming a growing concern in archery ever since the modernisation of the national sport. With more and more people taking an interest in compound bows that provide more force and convenience than traditional bamboo bows, mishaps in the sport have also been on the rise. At Khesangteri village in Samdrup Jongkhar, worried residents are calling for a new archery field to replace the one located right next to their community.
The archery ground at Khesangteri remains occupied almost every day, mostly after office hours. The ground is located just beside the road, making it risky while driving by and for people walking along the road. And at one end of the ground just below the target are a few houses which are also at risk.
Although there haven’t been any fatal incidents, residents say they are always afraid of getting hit by stray arrows.
“We are always worried that we may be hit by a stray arrow anytime. We also have domestic animals here, it is risky for them as well. It would be nice if the Thromde could construct a proper archery stadium,” said Yegay, a resident of Khesangteri.
“Many people are interested in playing archery. More than 20 people play archery here using compound bows, and more will take an interest if we have a proper archery ground. People go for walks along this road, so we pause our game and wait till they have passed by,” said Rinzin, an archery enthusiast.
“Since the archery ground is located near the road and school vehicles ply from here, it is not convenient for them and us as well. We would be grateful if we get a proper archery ground for both traditional and compound games,” Thinley
Khesangtheri is located on the outskirts of the Samdrup Jongkhar Thromde.
Locals say the archery ground at Khesangtheri has been here for decades. People used traditional bows in the past but games are now mostly played using compound bows.
Meanwhile, Samdrup Jongkhar Thrompon Thinley Namgay says the thromde administration has plans to construct an archery ground and is currently looking for an ideal location to construct it. The arena will be located in a safe location and will be constructed within this financial year.
Kinley Wangchuk, Samdrup Jongkhar
Edited by Yeshi Gyaltshen
