The longstanding issue of unreliable drinking water supply facing the residents of lower Drubchhugang of Tsholingkhar Gewog in Tsirang is finally expected to be resolved. This is because the Gewog Administration and residents are collaborating on a new drinking water project. Residents said the present water source is not enough due to increased population over the years.
The gewog administration and residents have identified a new water source from Harpaypani, which is located around one kilometre from the settlement.
The residents say the water source is enough to cater to over 12 households.
The construction of the intake tank at the water source and laying pipeline to reservoir has been completed so far. Currently, the residents are engaged in the construction of the reservoir.
The gewog administration is providing construction materials such as water pipes and cement.
Besides the labour contribution, the villagers have contributed in procuring sand and aggregates.
“The present drinking water source is very small and it is not adequate for people living in the lower areas. We have collected funds from beneficiaries to buy sand and aggregates. But if we are left with enough budget balance from the allocated budget, we are thinking of refunding amounts to the beneficiaries once all the works are complete,” said Krishna Dhakal, Drubchhugang Tshogpa.
“We get water supply but it is small. So, we have been storing water in barrels. We are hopeful that the new water supply will resolve the existing drinking water shortage,” said Pema Lhamo, a resident.
“The previous water source is located a bit far from here. So, we do not get water when the residents residing in the upper part of Chiwog use the water. But the new water source is very close to our settlement,” said Tara Bir Kepchaki, another resident.
“The drinking water shortage could be due to an increasing number of households sharing the same water source. But the new drinking water supply will benefit the residents living in the lower part of the chiwog,” Dil Maya Rai, who is also a resident.
The gewog administration is spending Nu 300,000 for the water supply project.
The work started about two weeks ago and is expected to be completed by the end of this month.
Pema Tshewang, Tsirang
Edited by Tshering Zam
