December 29: Two new Plant and Animal Quarantine Stations has been opened in Gelephu and Samtse. With this Bhutan now has a total of three such quarantine stations.

The present quarantine station is located at the Paro international airport.

The new plant and animal quarantine stations were built in Gelephu and Samtse as the locations being an important entry points. Gelephu was also identified as a potential location for an international airport earlier.

The quarantine stations have cattle sheds, loading and unloading ramps, laboratory and greenhouse. The new plant and animal quarantine stations will screen all plant and animal species entering and leaving the country.

The stations were inaugurated by the Agriculture Minister Lyonpo Dr. Pema Gyamtsho in Gelephu yesterday. The Minister said the facilities will help prevent entry of animal and plant diseases and epidemics.

The Executive Director of the Bhutan Agriculture and Food Regulatory Authority (BAFRA) said and effective quarantine system is essential. He said it serves as the first line to defense against dangerous pests and diseases.

BAFRA officials say the quarantine stations will also facilitate trade by ensuring quality and safety of import and export. The Plant and Animal Quarantine Station in Gelephu was built at a cost of about Nu 8.5 million with funds from the government.

BAFRA now has plans to open quarantine stations at other major entry points in Phuentsholing and Samdrupjongkhar.