Waste management continues to be a problem in the country. In Tingtibi town under Zhemgang district, residents complain of an improper dumping yard that is left without proper monitoring and management for over a decade. The wastes piled up in the dumping yard has become an eye sore for the residents and motorists.
With increasing population and developmental activities, the need for a proper dumping site has become increasingly important. The town residents produce about eight metric tons of wastes a month.
With improper dumping site, people have been dumping wastes in the current dumping yard for more than 15 years now. Residents complain that the concerned authorities have turned a blind eye to the problem.
“Firstly, it is located near the town, secondly, falls on the highway and thirdly, it is along the river bank and poses serious risks. So, I feel if the thromde could relocate the dump yard sooner,” said Dorji Wangchuk, a resident.
“We have to travel through the highway. And it’s not pleasing to the eyes as the wastes dumped is clearly visible. And the smell is horrible. Moreover, the cattle are often seen grazing near the waste area. it would be good if the dump yard is relocated to a safer place,” said Phuba, a motorist.
For twice a week, the garbage truck travels 35 kilometres from Zhemgang to Tingtibi town to collect wastes. But the only dumping yard is left without proper monitoring and management, filled with all types of wastes.
“We close the gate but every time but the herders open it and let their cattle graze near the waste area. There will be some seven to eight cows grazing near the area. And this place has been like this since I joined as a caretaker,” said Sonu Maya tamang, the caretaker of the dumping yard.
Meanwhile, the district administration said while they are aware of the problem, it’s been difficult to get an appropriate location to construct a dumping yard. But they are continuing their search for one.
Pema Samdrup, Zhemgang
Edited by Sonam Pem
