As the rainy season begins, concerns grow among the villagers of Yangmalashing in Pema Gatshel. The farm road in the village is located in a landslide-prone area, causing frequent blocks during monsoon. Despite years of requests for mitigation measures, their pleas have fallen on deaf ears.
The road was realigned in 2021 to address the issue but the situation is still the same. Recently, a landslide occurred in the realigned road putting the lives of seven households at risk.
Villagers said that the situation worsens every year, calling for an urgent need for mitigation measures.
“It has been eroded for years. We would have appreciated it if mitigation efforts were carried out earlier. Now, it is getting worse and it has already caused harm,” said Khandu, a resident.
“Without a wall, villagers staying above this area are at risk. And the continuous sliding will affect the lower areas as well,” said Tshewang Jurme, another resident.
“With only elderly people here, we have to take them to get a checkup three times a month. Now, even the base of the road has been washed away. We are worried how even vehicle will pass through,” said Rinchen Zangmo, a resident.
The gewog administration is aware of the issue but cited high costs as a hindrance to constructing a mitigation wall.
However, the administration is exploring other suitable mitigation methods.
“The place is fragile and we cannot promise to construct the wall. Nevertheless, we will discuss with experts and the people to find alternative mitigation solutions,” said Phuntsho, Dechhenling Gup.
The recent landslide has also caused damage to private lands and orange orchards below the road. The farm road was constructed in 2017.
If effective mitigation works are implemented, it will benefit 15 households in the area.
Thinley Dorji, Pema Gatshel
Edited by Sonam Pem
