Nim Dorji | Trongsa

This time of the year the cordyceps collectors make the most out of the short season. However, in Bumthang, the number of collectors particularly from Tang and Chhoekhor has decreased significantly.

Every year chhoekhor gewog issue more than 850 cordyceps collection permits. But this year, only 730 people came for permit.

More than 600 people have left for collection since May 19 by registering at the entry points in dhur and khagthang.

The entry gates have been set up to monitor illegal collectors.

This year, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the collectors from Chhoekhor gewog should undergo mandatory flu screening. Suspects will be sent to quarantine facilities.

Bumthang Dzongdag Passang Dorji said that the collectors were briefed about the Covid-19 preventive measures by conducting awareness program in various locations.

“The collectors are asked to restrict from mingling with collectors from across the border,” he said. The collectors were also briefed about the cyclone Amphan and have been asked to stay alert.

Entry gates are established at a various locations which will be strictly monitored for 24 hours.

Collectors should come to collect the permit personally. Student, monks, and civil servant are not eligible for the permit.

Chhoekhor Gup Pema Dongyel said that unlike in the past the permit was distributed from various locations to discourage gathering.

“Only individuals who produce the certificate of participation in the awareness and collector card are issued with the permit,” he said.

Tang saw only four collectors come for permit.

Collectors from Tang go to Pagsalum  where collectors from across border also come. “We have asked the people to refrain from going there which has led to a decrease in the number of collectors” gup added.

This year, the number of foresters to monitor area has also increased. Close to 80 foresters have been deployed.

Collection permit for Chumig gewog will be issued on May 25.