𝐖𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐓𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐚 𝐋𝐞𝐢𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐥𝐥 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐲 𝐂𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐬

…𝒂 𝒖𝒏𝒊𝒒𝒖𝒆 𝒃𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒅 𝒐𝒇 𝒖𝒓𝒃𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒖𝒔𝒕𝒍𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒓𝒖𝒓𝒂𝒍 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒎 𝒖𝒏𝒇𝒐𝒍𝒅𝒔 𝒐𝒏 𝑻𝒉𝒊𝒎𝒑𝒉𝒖’𝒔 𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒆𝒆𝒕𝒔

By Ngawang Jamphel

In the heart of Thimphu, an unusual urban spectacle is unfolding – a kind of urban rodeo where stray cattle and horses leisurely wander through bustling streets. Despite its surface appeal, this trend poses substantial dangers to both the animals and the city’s inhabitants, raising urgent concerns about the safety of motorists and commuters, the aesthetics of the urban environment, and the overall harmony between urban development and the natural world. Concentrated mainly in areas like Zilukha and Hejo, these wandering equines pose significant risks to public safety and the well-being of both humans and animals.

Most of the stray horses and cattle originate from Lingzhi and Naro Gewog, making their way down to Thimphu during the winter season, primarily settling in Kabesa. However, by March, they migrate back to their respective gewogs, temporarily alleviating the issue.

Driving at night has become particularly risky due to the combination of low beam headlights and speeds around 50 km/h. A concerned taxi driver emphasized the danger for both drivers and horses, especially for inexperienced drivers.
Responding to the escalating situation, Thimphu Thromde has initiated a comprehensive strategy to tackle the issue effectively. A specialized Cattle Catcher Team, armed with a detailed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), has been deployed to confront the problem head-on.

“To address the immediate concerns, Thromde has established two impound sites – one near Babesa truck parking in the south and another in Dechencholing in the north,” said a spokesperson for Thimphu Thromde.

Stray animals are detained at these sites until their owners claim them, with Thromde providing food supplies for the animals during their stay. Owners are given a window of 3 to 5 days to reclaim their animals; otherwise, they are handed over to Tshethar Tshogpa for further care.

Authorities have taken proactive measures to inform the Gups of the two gewogs through personal phone calls, ensuring swift coordination and response. Additionally, the Thromde has implemented a policy requiring owners to replace any damages caused by their horses or cattle, although no significant property damage complaints have been reported thus far.

The Terms of Reference (TOR) outlining these protocols have been collectively passed through Thromde management meetings or Tshogdes, disseminated via social media channels, and national media channels like Bhutan Broadcasting Service to raise public awareness.

“Until now, these animals haven’t harmed any of my family members, but we can’t assure safety. However, a few have attacked my kitchen garden and left dung around my residence,” said Chimmi Wangmo, a resident of Hejo.

However, authorities stress the dynamic nature of the issue and continue to urge vigilance and cooperation from the public. Community members are encouraged to remain vigilant and promptly report any sightings or concerns regarding stray horses. Through collective awareness and proactive involvement, the community can significantly contribute to addressing the issue and ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals involved.

The multi-faceted approach adopted by Thromde reflects a proactive and responsible stance toward managing the issue of stray horses. By implementing structured protocols, fostering collaboration among stakeholders, and promoting public engagement, efforts are underway to effectively address the challenges posed by wandering equines while prioritizing the welfare of both humans and animals within the community.

The concerted efforts of Thimphu Thromde highlight a commitment to addressing community concerns and safeguarding public safety amidst the surge in stray horses along the city’s highways.