Farmers in Arghakhanchi have come under scrutiny for using electric current in maize fields to ward off monkey raids, prompting a stern warning from the district administration office. Authorities have vowed legal action against those employing such hazardous methods.

As monkey invasions continue to destroy ripening maize and other crops across the region, frustrated villagers have resorted to makeshift electric traps—naked wires set around fields. However, officials now say this practice is both unlawful and dangerous.

A public notice issued by Jhabilal Bhattarai, assistant chief district officer of Arghakhanchi, has called on locals to immediately stop laying bare electric wires to scare away wildlife.

Bhattarai warned that anyone found engaging in this practice would face strict legal consequences. Citizens have also been encouraged to report such incidents to local government offices, the police, or the administration.

The Division Forest Office has deployed 20 “monkey wardens” across affected areas, including Sandhikharka, Bhumikasthan, Panini, Malarani, and Chhatradev rural municipalities. Despite the presence of these temporary teams, locals say monkey herds continue to overpower community efforts to guard maize fields.

Earlier this week, the Arghakhanchi chapter of the Nepali Congress submitted a petition to chief district officer Gopal Aryal, urging authorities to explore effective and humane solutions for the monkey problem.

Farmers have long complained about repeated crop losses due to wildlife, but say little action has come from local governments or political leaders. Despite the division forest office’s intervention, no strategic plan has been presented by municipalities or other stakeholders to prevent the destruction of seasonal crops.

The rising conflict between agriculture and wildlife has become a major challenge for hill farmers across western Nepal. While electric wires may offer short-term relief, authorities insist the long-term risks outweigh the benefits.