In Samdrup Jongkhar’s Samdrupchhoeling Dungkhag, the crematorium has been facing a range of difficulties that have left mourners and grieving families in distress. The absence of basic amenities such as electricity and water, coupled with a deteriorating access road has made attending funerals an inconvenience for those coming from Phuentshothang, Pemathang and Martshala Gewogs.
The crematorium is located seven kilometres from Samdrupcholling Drungkhag town at Chhumedthang.
The lack of basic amenities has impacted the funeral proceedings. The absence of electricity makes it challenging for mourners to stay overnight and the lack of water hampers essential rituals and cleanliness.
Further, people are worried about their safety due to the presence of elephants in the vicinity of the crematorium. They are urging local authorities to consider relocating the crematorium to a safer location.
“Sometimes, it becomes very challenging as we are unable to transport the deceased due to the presence of elephants or roadblocks. It would be better if the crematorium could be shifted to a safer location,” said Cheten, a resident.
“Although the government has provided us with a crematorium, its location is very far and risky. I believe it would be better if it could be relocated to ensure the safety of mourners,” said Sonam Dorji, another resident.
“The current location of the crematorium is far away without water and electricity services. Moreover, the road conditions are poor. It becomes difficult to spend the night due to the lack of lighting, and elephants also cause damage. Relocating the crematorium would be a better solution,” said Wangpo, also a resident.
Moreover, the road leading to the crematorium further adds to the inconvenience, particularly affecting the residents of Khamaedthang Chiwog.
“The bad road conditions have made it extremely difficult to transport patients. Students also face problems, as they have to walk through mud. The roads are filled with potholes,” said Laxmi Narayan, a resident of Khamaedthang.
“The road is in terrible condition, causing damage to vehicles. When heavy vehicles pass through, it becomes challenging for us. The road here is not good,” said Gauri Devi Pokhrel, another resident.
According to Phuentshogthang Gup Jamyang Gyeltshen, relocating the crematorium is currently not possible.
However, there are plans to maintain the road next year under the Government of India’s small development project.
In addition, there are plans for a resettlement programme at Chhumedthang which currently has no settlement. With the resettlement plan, the gewog will include the provision of water and electricity services.
Kinley Wangchuk, Samrup Jongkhar
Edited by Sonam Pem
