Wild elephants rampaging through farms in Tashicholing Gewog in Samtse, erstwhile known as Sibsoo, have forced the farmers there to leave large tracts of paddy fields fallow. Autumn is time for the farmers to reap the fruits of their hard work but the harvest season is not so rosy for the farmers.
“Elephants encroach into our fields not only at night but also during day. We have no choice but to leave our land uncultivated,” said Nima Tshering, a local resident.
Kuenzang Wangmo said most of the farmers whose land is located near the border area from where the elephants enter, have left their paddy fields fallow.
The Tashicholing Gup, Nanda Raj Giri said every possible measure is being taken to keep the elephants at bay. “In co-ordination with Range Officer, we have constructed a total of three watch towers around the Sasboti forest plantation area. We have also procured a total of 30 torches to be distributed to the farmers.”
The Range office in Tashicholing is carrying out mass plantation of Jack fruit, Banana and bamboo in the Sasboti forest plantation area in an effort to keep the elephants within the forest area. They are also making artificial salt pond and water holes.
“We are not sure how successful it would be in keeping the elephants away,” said Pema Thinley, senior Range Officer.
Meanwhile, the farmers said if the situation failed to improve, they might have to stop growing anything.
