Distillery spent wash; a waste generated during the alcohol production has become a popular feed for livestock animals in Sarpang. It has also helped private vehicle owners earn income by supplying it to the farmers.
Every day, some 10-15 Bolero vehicles collect the waste from the dumpsite of the Bhutan Centennial Distillery Factory and distribute it to farmers.
The factory is located about seven kilometres away from Gelegphu town towards Sarpang.
A bolero driver, Wangdi said since many have taken up the business, it has become challenging to get consignments.
For farmers too, the waste has helped increase production and ease financial burden while procuring costly feeds from the factory.
However, Gelegphu’s Livestock officials said the waste which is stored for long period of time is not recommended for cattle feeding.
“Storing wastes would cause digestive problems to the animals and so will affect the health of the animals,” said the Livestock Official, Dr. Tshewang Gyembo.