Farmers in Geyzing Struggle as Monkey Menace Escalates
KUSH HANG LEEWANG
GEYZING: Farmers in villages around Geyzing are facing significant challenges due to an escalating monkey menace. The persistent raids by groups of over 30 monkeys have resulted in widespread destruction of crops, particularly corn, causing substantial financial losses during the current harvest season. Villages like Upper Kyongsa, Byadung, and Tikutam are the most severely affected by these primate invasions.
The monkeys have been ravaging crop fields and vegetable gardens, leaving devastated farmers in their wake. "My entire cornfield was emptied recently, only corn stalks were left behind," a farmer from Upper Kyongsa lamented. Another farmer echoed this frustration, stating that growing crops feels like offering free food to the monkeys.
Efforts to guard the fields have proven futile. Farmers have tried various methods, from scarecrows to employing dogs, yet the monkeys continue to infiltrate the farms. Despite staying in their fields throughout the day, farmers find it impossible to deter these persistent intruders.
The affected farmers have reported the issue to the Forest department multiple times. While they have received monetary compensation for their losses, no concrete action has been taken to mitigate the menace. In addition to the damage to farmland, monkeys have been raiding homes, stealing valuables and food items. Recently, a monkey made off with a bag containing important documents, though it was later recovered.
The growing simian population also poses a threat to school-going children who traverse routes frequented by monkeys. Although no attacks on humans have been reported yet, residents fear that such incidents could occur in the future. "It is scary to let our children roam around alone with the monkeys around," expressed a concerned mother.
Villagers are urging the Forest department to address the monkey menace by capturing and relocating them to a suitable natural habitat. They remain hopeful that effective measures will soon be implemented to resolve this persistent issue.
Original Story https://www.sikkimexpress.com/news-details/monkey-menace-wreaks-havoc-on-geyzing-farmers
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