Travellers crossing the Jamkhar Drang Bridge that connects Trashi Yangtse with Trashigang are advised to be extra cautious. This is due to the growing number of rock bee hives beneath the bridge. The bees also known as giant honey bees have already stung a few people crossing the bridge.
Travellers usually stop for a photograph at Jamkhar Drang Bridge, before the gateway sign of Trashi Yangste. However, this unassuming location harbours a menace that could even prove fatal in some instances.
Beneath the bridge, one can see several rock bee hives hanging on to its beam. When the bridge is moved by people and vehicles using it, the bees can be seen swarming out of hives posing a risk to commuters.
There are a few incidents of pedestrians being stung by the rock bees.
“There is a risk as the bees sting us when we walk over the bridge. My son just got stung a few moments ago,” said Rinzin Dema, a resident from Yangnyer in Trashigang.
“I stay near this area in summer and autumn season herding cows and when we have to wait for vehicles here, they attack us. The bees attacked us earlier today. The bees are a menace to the people here,” added Ugyen Lhundrup, another resident from Yangnyer.
According to forestry officials, rock bees usually stay in a place temporarily for a few months. They expect the colonies to migrate from the bridge to other places once the winter ends.
In some cases, if individuals are allergic to bee stings, a severe reaction called anaphylaxis could occur which is life-threatening. Foresters, therefore, advise people to stay away from the hives and also suggest drivers close car windows while crossing the bridge.
Ngawang Tenzin, Trashi Yangtse
Edited by Kipchu
