In its effort to restore the Gasa Tshachu, the Dzongkhag Administration is currently working on the flood mitigation works before finalising its reconstruction plans. To date, the administration together with the relevant agencies have diverted the river and found the water sources. The swollen Mochhu completely washed away the hot spring in August this year.
The flood submerged all the seven ponds and washed down four concrete structures. The Mochhu broke its banks and diverted its course towards the hot spring in the wee hours.
Currently, the department of geology and mines together with the department of disaster management and other relevant agencies are assessing and working on the mitigation plans.
“Following the flood, we have tried diverting the river to the other side of the bridge. In addition, we have carried out the mitigation works and found the water sources. Although we haven’t restored to its former state, we are happy that we have been able to find the water sources,” said Tandin Dorji, the Tshachu Manager.
Meanwhile, the Dzongkhag Administration found that local residents have been soaking in the temporary ponds near the spring site. But the office immediately restricted the people from visiting the site.
As per the department of geology and mines’s preliminary study report, the spring site is still not free from danger.
The reconstruction plans will be implemented only after the relevant agencies complete their assessment and mitigation works.
“Currently, we do not have a proper layout of the budget for the hot spring’s restoration works as the relevant agencies are still assessing and mitigating. We will put up the budget accordingly after the mitigation and assessment works are complete. And since the hot spring holds a greater significance, I am hoping the government will support the restoration efforts,” said the Tshachu Manager.
Gasa Tshachu is one of the most popular hot springs in the country and is frequented by a swelling number of visitors every year. The hot spring is believed to cure skin problems, joint pains and digestive disorders among others.
Sonam Tenzin, Gasa
Edited by Sonam Pem
