BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 21st December 2024: The local business community in Kathalia, located 16 kilometers south of the Sonamura subdivision is facing severe disruption due to the rampage of ferocious monkeys. This growing nuisance is not only affecting businesses but also impacting households, especially in rural areas where monkeys take advantage of any opportunity to steal raw vegetables.
For some time now, residents and shopkeepers have been suffering from the relentless monkey raids, particularly targeting vegetable and fruit shops. The monkeys, numbering around five to six, are causing significant damage. On Saturday morning, as vegetable traders set up their shops, the monkeys were seen raiding the stalls, grabbing various vegetables, and retreating to the rooftops to eat their loot.
Vegetable traders Shridam Debnath, Shanu Pal, fruit and banana trader Sanjit Majumdar and Motilal Das expressed their frustration. “Look, there was no such pain before. For the past few days, it has become difficult for us to do business due to the monkey infestation. I can’t understand why,” said Debnath. “I have spoken to the forest department staff about the matter, but they are not saying anything either,” added Majumdar.
The problem is not confined to the Kathalia commercial area; similar issues are reported in all markets within the Kathalia block area. The situation has made it challenging for residents to grow vegetables at home, as the monkeys raid and consume any homegrown produce. The infestation has created a near-impossible situation for those trying to sustain themselves with homegrown vegetables.
In tribal areas, where rubber plantations are prevalent, the food crisis for monkeys and other wild animals may be driving them to the rural markets. The lack of adequate food sources is pushing these animals to seek out alternative sources, thereby causing havoc for the local business community and residents.
Sonamura Sub-Divisional Magistrate Mahendra Kambe Chakma, along with other administrative officials, is closely monitoring the situation. “We are aware of the issue and are taking necessary steps to address it,” Chakma stated. “Coordination with the forest department is ongoing to find a sustainable solution to this problem.”
The local business community remains hopeful for a resolution. “We just want to conduct our business without these disruptions. It’s becoming unbearable,” said fruit trader Motilal Das.
The authorities are under pressure to find a solution to the monkey menace that has not only disrupted daily life but also threatens the livelihood of many in Kathalia and surrounding areas.
