(VOVworld) – Conventional farm machinery is ineffective in the terraced fields of Na Hang district, Tuyen Quang province. After many years of research, Hoang Van Thang, a motorbike repairman has produced a multi-function mechanical plough.

Agricultural production in Na Hang has always relied on man and buffalo power because machines wouldn’t work on the sloping ground. With his mechanical know-how, Thang tried many ideas before finally producing a mechanical plough that can work on a variety of terrains. He told us: “Machines with a gear box containing transmission chains are not practical because after working in mud and water for a short while, the chains need to be replaced. I thought of a gearbox with a toothed wheel bathed in oil so the machine can work on all types of terrain.”

Hoang Van Quang of Na Kham village said he used to use a buffalo to plough his field. Now he bought one of Thang’s machines which he also uses to pump water and as a tractor at harvest time. He said: “This machine works even on sloping terrain where made-in-China machines don’t. All we need to do is keep the machine balanced. The machine is very productive and effective.”

The machines customized by Thang are half the price of those previously on the market and are preferred by local farmers. Nguyen Thi Men, head of the Agriculture and Rural Development Office of Na Nang district, says: “Thang’s machine is labor efficient and easy to move around. Its design is suitable for the local terrain. The price is reasonable and many households have bought one to increase their productivity.”