Private nunneries in the eastern Dzongkhags are now prepared in case of a natural disasters. A four-day workshop in Trashigang trained the nuns, 30 of them, on how to battle a fire, first aid and rescue techniques during earthquake and fire disasters.
Until now the nunneries lacked equipment such as fire extinguishers and lacked awareness on disaster management. Officials say nunneries are prone to fire due to the butter lamps.
“Earlier, when disaster struck, we were helpless,” Karma Choki, from Sherab Yoesel Choeling Nunnery in Samdrup Jongkhar, said. “The workshop gave us the confidence to handle such a situation. Before, we were afraid to touch even a gas cylinder.”
Another nun from Pema Choeling Nunnery in Bumthang said she was wondering what the fire extinguishers in Lhakhangs was for. “Now we know why and how to use it.”
Nuns say they will now procure fire extinguishers after returning to their respective places.
The Department of Disaster Management (DDM) officials say it is important for nuns to be trained on battling fire since nunneries are prone to fire due to the butter lamps and incense sticks.
The DDM’s Chief Programme Officer, Yang Dorji said, Since the nunneries and Dratshangs are located in secluded areas, the nuns play a crucial role in disaster management not only in their respective places but also in the locality.
“We are training the teachers of the respective nunneries as they are the focal person who should be handling the institution during a disaster.”
The Bhutan Nuns Foundation organised the workshop, which ended today, with funds from the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund.
