Human-wildlife conflict is one of the major challenges faced by farmers in the country. Every year, crops are lost to wildlife despite sleepless nights of guarding the fields. But for the people of Chhimoong Gewog in Pema Gatshel, electric fencing has proven to be effective and beneficial.
The electric fencing in Pangthang chiwog under Chhimoong Gewog was installed last year. It is powered using an energiser which converts the power into a high voltage pulse. If the wire carrying the current is touched by an animal, the current passes through the animal to the ground, and this effect gives a shock.
The installation of electric fences has given the farmers a much-needed break from guarding their crops.
“We haven’t harvested anything yet this year. But I earned nearly Nu 7,000 to 8,000 last year,” said Sonam Gyeltshen, a farmer.
“We didn’t have to spend a night guarding the crops even once after the fencing. We haven’t lost any crop to wild animals,” said Laja Wangchuk, another farmer.
Unlike other gewogs, each household in Pangthang chiwog under Chhimoong Gewog was provided with an electric fence. This practice has encouraged farmers to take ownership.
“We didn’t focus on covering the whole village with few connections as it will not function well after a few years. Instead, we have distributed an energiser for each household. And they are doing great,” said Thinley Jamtsho, Chhimoong Mangmi.
Meanwhile, the farmers who have already installed electric fencing are hoping for a good harvest this year and are planning to cultivate other cash crops.
“I have land above my house. I am thinking of cultivating potatoes there. The installation of electric fencing will minimise wildlife attacks. It will greatly benefit us. Even if the government is not able to support us in the future, we are thinking of replacing the fences ourselves if it gets damaged,” said Laja Wangchuk.
“It’s disheartening to see wild animals attacking our fields. The electric fence is a boon to us. Our children can use it in the future if they wish to come and work in the fields. They can maintain and use it,” said Sonam Gyeltshen.
More than 30 households in three chiwogs are benefiting from the use of electric fencing. The gewog supported the farmers with the fencing materials and technical assistance.
And with the success of the initiative, the gewog is looking into providing electric fences to interested households.
Thinley Dorji, Pema Gatshel
Edited by Sonam Pem
