Restaurant and hotel owners in Gelegphu town are fighting water issues once again. After the shortage was addressed now, it is the quality of water that has become an issue. They have been receiving muddy water in their taps for almost a week now.
Worried about contracting waterborne diseases, they are managing clean water from other places for drinking and cooking purpose with some even buying mineral water for consumption.
The water from the taps, they said, can be used only for washing purpose and to flush the toilet.
“The water is very dirty, it is not at all drinkable. We use mineral water for cooking and drinking. The water from the tap can be used only for washing dish and clothes,” said Tulsi Maya Galley, a hotelier.
“We use the water from the tap only to wash dishes and flush the toilet. We tried to pump water into a storage tank to let the mud settle. That way it gets a little better but it is not safe for drinking,” added Dawa Zam who also runs a hotel in Gelegphu town.
According to the head of Gelegphu Thromde’s Water Supply Division Karma Wangdi, there is nothing the office can do for now as the water is muddy at the source due to a landslide triggered by heavy rainfall. “There is landslide at the source at Jigme Chhoeling area. From our side, we tried to adopt various measure to resolve the issue by initiating a retaining wall, deep intake well and silt trap. But nothing worked.”
Gelegphu Thromde supplies drinking water to Gelegphu town area from Mao river water treatment plant. There are around 35 hotels and restaurants in Gelephu town. According to the Thromde office, they will have to bear the muddy water until Mao River clears on its own.
Karma Wangdi, Gelegphu
