The first shop in Samtse’s Tendu town opened in 1990. It now has about 50 businesses. However, even after thirty years, the town’s progress has been slow. Today, Tendu town is facing problems with waste and drainage. People are saying that garbage trucks do not come often, and the drainage system is not good enough, forming puddles and causing flooding in some parts.
The garbage truck comes to the town only once a week, and there are times when even that does not happen. Anyone visiting the town can notice a growing pile of waste near shops and homes.
In addition, stray dogs often rip open the garbage bags, scattering trash throughout the town, which has made the situation quite serious.
Frustrated by this, a few residents have started burning waste in open spaces.
“Because the garbage truck rarely shows up more than once a week, our waste accumulates outside our shops. Dogs end up tearing it apart and spreading it around. This situation leads to frequent arguments and conflicts with our neighbours about how to handle waste in our vicinity,” said Tshering Yangchen, a resident.
At the same time, the absence of a suitable drainage system in Tendu town has resulted in rainwater forming puddles.
Residents, especially those residing below the main road, are badly affected by the poor drainage system.
“Since my shop is situated right below the road, during heavy rainfall, all the rainwater, along with additional waste, flows into our home, causing a lot of hardship. Having proper drains alongside the road could have made a significant difference in our situation,” said Joshna Rai, a shopkeeper.
The Tendu town Tshogpa, Karma Wangchuk said there is an urgent requirement for a dependable waste collection vehicle and a functional drainage system, particularly extending towards the Gewog office.
“At times, the waste collection vehicle fails to arrive. Given our sizable population, which includes an army camp, a central school, and a small town, it would greatly improve the situation if the waste collection occurred twice a week.”
On the other hand, the Tendu Gewog office said there are plans to construct a drainage system and footpath as part of the 13th Five-Year-Plan.
Regarding waste collection, the Gewog office has clarified that the town does not qualify for such services as it is not designated as a satellite town.
Furthermore, the current waste pickup service is arranged based on requests made by the Gewog office.
The Gewog administration said there are plans to upgrade Tendu into a satellite town, which would subsequently lead to improved services.
Passang Dorji, Samtse
Edited by Sherub Dorji
