Drinking water scarcity is a challenge faced by almost all the gewogs in Pema Gatshel. Likewise, it has been a struggle for the people of Norbugang-Rinchhenzor chiwog where some households still carry water on their backs. However, the problem is likely to get resolved soon. Under the flagship water project, two water pumps are under construction.
Without a water supply, people resort to a small pond for water. With the only water source located about a kilometre away, it’s a daily struggle for Tshomo to fetch water and walk uphill every day. The problem has persisted for decades.
“We have been carrying water like this. There are no other water sources for us. It becomes difficult when we have to perform rituals at home. Soon this source will also dry up and we won’t be able to see a drop of water here,” said Tshomo.
Like Tshomo, others are challenged with a similar struggle. And with winter approaching, it is going to be more taxing for the residents with the water drying up in the pond.
“We don’t get even a single drop of water during winter. People who have vehicles fetch water in their cars. For us who do not have a vehicle, we have to carry water on our backs from the pond below the village,” said Yeshi Wangmo, a resident of Norbugang village.
“In the past, we used to transport water in the vehicle. But later we installed a private water pump,” said Tsheltrim Zangpo, another resident.
However, their struggles are expected to come to an end soon. Two electric water pumps are under construction below the village.
“In winter, the nearby water source dries up and it becomes very difficult for the people here. We are expecting to hand over the project to the people within two to three months this winter. The BPC has already dispatched the electric poles and wiring materials at the site,” said Rinchen Khandu, Norbugang-Rinchhenzor Tshogpa.
The water pump project worth over Nu 10 M will benefit more than 65 families in the chiwog.
Thinley Dorji, Pema Gatshel
Edited by Sonam Pem
