Chencho Dema

Punakha—A 51-year-old man survived a harrowing encounter when an arrow, shot from a compound bow, landed on his temple. This incident took place in Bjibjokha in Punakha on the morning of April 6, around 10am.

The incident occurred during a friendly match between two neighbouring villages, the Pangsho and Bjibjokha teams.

Following the incident, the man was promptly taken to Punakha District Hospital. Given the severity of his condition, he was referred to Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital later that morning.

The man’s condition was critical, prompting his admission to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

The man is in the process of recovery and is no longer in critical condition.

Meanwhile, certain residents of Punakha have voiced concerns regarding the safety of both players and spectators during archery matches.

A resident of Changyuel said: “While we haven’t recorded any fatalities from arrow shots, such incidents could prove fatal if caution isn’t exercised. Moreover, the involvement of some players in archery while under the influence of alcohol raises the likelihood of accidents.”

Punakha police have reported three archery-related accidents to date.