The construction of the Gerichhu water supply system was jointly undertaken by the Department of Livestock under the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock and the Desuung Office as a National Water Service Program. Officially launched on 13th December 2022, this aspiring nine-month project was completed successfully on 31st August 2023. Throughout the duration of the project, a dedicated team of 93 Desuups were engaged under the supervision of site engineer and technical staff from the National Research and Development Centre for Riverine and Lake Fisheries as well as the Bhutan Sturgeon Farm. At its core, the project was designed to ensure a reliable and secure water supply, which is crucial for the boosting sturgeon farming industry in Bhutan. The beginning of this initiative can be traced back to the realization of the indispensability of a pristine and uninterrupted water supply for sturgeon farming. Renowned as one of the rarest and most sought-after fish, sturgeons play a key role in the aquaculture sector, especially given their contribution to the production of luxury items like caviar.In-depth studies and assessments led to the identification of Gerichhu as an ideal water source. This water source meets the specific needs essential for commercially rearing sturgeon, especially for breeding and the production of the highly prized caviar. By harnessing this water supply system, it can be assured to meet the requisite water demands for sturgeon farming at a commercial scale, paving the way for a sustainable and lucrative future for sturgeon farming in Bhutan.Marking its completion, the project was handed over to the Department of Livestock on 7th September. The auspicious handover ceremony was presided over by the Hon’ble Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, and attended by Dzongdag of Wangduephodrang Dzongkhag, Director of Department of Livestock, Program Director of National Biodiversity Centre, Local Government Leaders, Desuups of National Water Service Program, and officials from Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock.
contributed by: Ms. Bindiya SharmaLivestock Production Officer, NRDCRLF, Haa(Officer In-charge, Sturgeon Farm, Harachu)
