December 16, 2023
Transect Walk: A Valuable Data Collection Tool for Disaster Planning and Livestock Well-Being
In a collaborative effort, a team of veterinary scientists from Lala Lajpat Rai Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Hisar, embarked on a transect walk in the picturesque village of Kandwari, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh. Supported by local veterinary doctor Dr. Manish Kharwal and a team of dedicated paraveterinary staff, the exercise aimed to assess the livestock situation in the region and gather crucial information for disaster planning.
Livestock Shelter Assessment: Two teams, each comprising three faculty members and three paraveterinary staff, conducted the transect walk. Key observations were meticulously recorded in a performa designed by the Extension faculty of COVAS CSKHPKV Palampur. The teams focused on assessing the livestock shelter situation in the region, primarily for cows, sheep, and goats. Noteworthy findings included the predominant use of bamboo as a local construction material, the presence of temporary shelters for daytime and pucca shelters for evenings and nights. The use of brick-mud material, while earthquake-resistant, was identified as vulnerable to heavy rains.
Feed and Fodder Assessment: The transect walk shed light on the critical aspects of feed and fodder availability. Maize, oats, bamboo leaves, kachnaar leaves, droob grass, wheat/rice straw, mustard cake, berseem, and bran were identified as essential components of the local livestock diet.
Water Source Evaluation: The teams evaluated water sources, noting the presence of recurring water streams and clear, abundant tap water. This information is crucial for disaster planning, ensuring that livestock have access to sufficient and safe water during emergencies.
Livestock Health Observations: Livestock health was a primary concern during the transect walk. The teams found that proper vaccination protocols for diseases such as FMD, HS, BQ, and Brucellosis were being followed. In sheep and goats, vaccinations for PPR, Pox, FMD, and ET were observed. Recent outbreaks of LSD were reported. Regular deworming practices were noted, and there was a good level of awareness about mineral mixtures among the local community.
Infrastructure and Community Practices: The transect walk provided insights into the infrastructure of the region, including roads, bridges, and veterinary facilities. Feed storage practices, poultry housing, and potential threats from wild animals were also documented. The community’s collaboration, communication network, and traditional practices, such as high-altitude grazing and seasonal migration of sheep and goats, were found to be robust.
Infrastructure and Community Collaboration
The infrastructure in the village, including roads, bridges, and veterinary hospitals, was assessed, revealing a positive trend in development. The community’s collaboration was found to be exemplary, with strong ties among villagers, local leaders, messengers, and various community groups.
Livestock Management Strategies: Traditional Knowledge of Community
The village’s preparedness for disaster situations included the allocation and arrangement of animals to higher elevations during emergencies. Additionally, seasonal migration of sheep and goats for high-altitude grazing and the practice of 35 farmers relying on these animals showcased a well-thought-out strategy.
Conclusion:
The transect walk emerged as a powerful data collection tool, providing a holistic understanding of the livestock well-being and disaster preparedness in Village Kandwari, Palampur. The reflections from this practical exercise underscore the importance of on-the-ground assessments, collaboration with local communities, and the integration of scientific knowledge in disaster planning for livestock. This valuable information can serve as a model for similar initiatives in other regions, contributing to the overall resilience of rural communities in the face of potential disasters.
Note: The information presented in this article is based on the practical exercise conducted by the team
(Drs Divya,Jyoti,Sujoy,Ricky,Vishal,Vishal,Livestock Owners,farmers and Paraveterinary Staff of Veterinary Hospital Kandwari) and is a reflection of their observations and assessments during the transect walk in Village Kandwari,Palampur Himachal Pradesh,India.
Leave a Reply