Migration is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that is increasingly influenced by climate change and rural crises. Sonam and Pema’s story of migration from eastern Bhutan to the Pasakha Industrial Estate sheds light on the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals seeking better livelihoods in the face of changing environmental and economic conditions.
The couple, once farmers in a village where agriculture became unsustainable due to climate change impacts and human-wildlife conflict, made the difficult decision to move to Pasakha in search of factory jobs. Their experience mirrors a nationwide trend of declining agricultural returns driving internal migration within Bhutan. The shift in policy focus from expanding arable land to reviving fallow land highlights the changing dynamics of rural livelihoods in the country.
In Pasakha, Sonam and Pema have faced numerous challenges, from precarious housing conditions to environmental pollution and extreme weather events. The industrial area, prone to severe floods and high levels of air pollution, poses risks to the health and safety of migrant workers and their families. Kinley’s story of losing his home to a flood and rebuilding his life with the help of remittances from his daughter in Australia exemplifies the resilience and adaptability of migrant communities.
The increasing trend of migration as an adaptation strategy in response to climate change is evident not only in Bhutan but also in neighboring countries like Nepal and India. While migration can provide economic relief and access to opportunities, it also exposes individuals to new risks and challenges. The need for well-designed policy interventions that address migration, urban planning, and rural resilience is crucial to ensure that migration benefits both migrants and their communities of origin.
As Bhutan experiences a shift towards a remittance-driven economy, the role of migration in supporting families and communities becomes more pronounced. For Sonam and Pema, migration to Pasakha has not only improved their economic standing but also strengthened their family’s resilience to climate challenges back home. The choice to migrate should be supported by policies that enhance access to essential services and economic opportunities for migrant populations, while also bolstering rural livelihoods to make migration a choice for better opportunities rather than a necessity for survival.
In conclusion, the stories of Sonam, Pema, and Kinley highlight the complexities and nuances of migration as an adaptation strategy in the context of climate change and rural transformations. By understanding the challenges and opportunities faced by migrant communities, policymakers and stakeholders can work towards creating a more sustainable and inclusive future for all.
