As fewer people live in remote villages, more farmland is left unused. This has increased human-wildlife conflicts. The government is trying different ways to manage the problem, and chain-link fencing has proven to be one of the most effective solutions. As a result, more communities are now asking for it.
Dagor Chiwog is one of the most remote chiwogs Shumar Gewog. Surrounded by thick forests and with fewer people living here, the chiwog struggles with human-wildlife conflict.
Farmers say it has become extremely difficult to guard their crops, leaving them with little to harvest. Yet, they remain hopeful after learning that chain-link fencing can keep wildlife at bay and help ensure a good harvest.
“Wild boars and monkeys keep destroying our crops. We have to guard day and night, which is very tiring. We heard that chain-link fencing has helped other villages, and we would be very grateful if we could receive the same support,” said Kezang, Resident, Dagor Chiwog, Shumar Gewog, Pema Gatshel.
“During the day, monkeys and langurs destroy the crops, and at night it’s the wild boars. I’ve never seen chain-link fencing before, but I’m sure it would benefit us immensely,” said Chedra, Resident, Dagor Chiwog, Shumar Gewog, Pema Gatshel.
“We have two villages, Dagor and Gumrong, located close to each other. If the fencing is provided, it will benefit both communities. We’ve already requested support from the agriculture extension office,” said Sherab, Dagor Tshogpa, Shumar Gewog, Pema Gatshel.
Hope is on the horizon for Dagor Chiwog as the local government plans to provide fencing support in the next financial year.
“We won’t leave the elderly residents behind just because they are few in number. This project is one of our priorities, and we are planning to provide the facility by this or the next financial year,” said Sonam Dendup, Shumar Gup, Pema Gatshel.
People of Dagor village grow maize twice a year and rely on oranges as their main cash crop. If they get chain-link fencing, farmers plan to grow other high-value cereals and fruit trees to boost their income.
With two villages in the chiwog, the chain-link fencing project will benefit more than 45 households once implemented.
Thinley Dorji, Pema Gatshel
Edited by Sonam Pem
