Bhojpur, Aug 18: Farmers in Bhojpur district are increasingly struggling with monkey attacks as troops of monkeys continue to damage crops, vegetables and fruits throughout the year.

The problem is particularly severe in farms located near forests and away from human settlements. Farmers say maize fields suffer the most damage, especially when the crop is nearing maturity. Once monkeys enter the fields, they can destroy the harvest within a short period.

Kumar Raut, a local of Bhojpur Municipality-4, said farmers have been forced to remain in their fields for hours to chase away the monkeys. He stressed the need for a long-term solution rather than relying solely on temporary measures.

“Crops cultivated through months of hard work are destroyed by monkeys. Farmers have to stay in the fields just to protect their harvest,” Raut said, questioning why the authorities have not given sufficient attention to the problem.

Vegetables and fruits grown in home gardens are also being damaged. Many farmers have built temporary huts in their fields so that family members can keep watch and drive away the animals. According to farmers, two or three family members often have to stay in the fields every day.

Khudrus Minya, chief of the Division Forest Office in Bhojpur, said devices had been provided to local governments and farmers to help drive away monkeys. However, he acknowledged that the devices offer only an immediate solution and that more effective long-term measures are needed.

The persistent problem has become both an economic and social concern for farming communities. Some farmers have even started considering leaving their settlements due to repeated crop losses.

Farmers have urged local governments and concerned authorities to work together and formulate a long-term strategy to control the monkey population, reduce crop damage and protect their livelihoods.