In Phuentshogling, an area below the core town has become a major dumping ground, with heaps of trash accumulating in large quantities. Despite border walls, this stretch remains porous due to a seasonal stream that flows through the area, making it easy for people to dump trash and cross freely.
The area below Pemaling near the core town in Phuentshogling, is an eyesore. A stretch consumed by heaps of garbage, a glaring reflection of rampant illegal dumping. A thick, foul stench fills the air. The ground is covered in a mix of rotting food, plastic bottles, discarded packaging, and scraps of fabric, while broken furniture and old appliances lie scattered across the land.
Plants here are now draped in tattered pieces of cloth and torn plastic bags that sway in the breeze. Flies and mosquitoes swarm over the trash, feeding off the filth.
Phuentshogling Dungpa Karma Jurmi said, “We have tried building walls, but it was unsuccessful, so the area is porous. The main issue is that the people living in the neighboring village have been dumping waste. During the night, people also defecate in the area. The area has become so dirty and became difficult for us to manage.”
It is not just about the trash, animals also roam freely in the area. This, the dungpa said, increases the risks of diseases spread by animals like rabies.
Dungkhag officials added that security is another challenge with people taking advantage of the porous border as a route for illegal activities. The dungkhag administration, therefore, developed a more durable structure that accommodates the seasonal stream.
He said, “We have come up with a new idea because construction of normal walls in this area didn’t help. We have to consider the stream that swells up during monsoon, so we dug deep into the ground for a stronger base. The wall will be about three metres above the ground. Then, there will be wire fencing above these walls which will not allow people and animals to cross.”
The wall construction, worth Nu 4 M, is expected to be complete before the monsoon. Authorities are hopeful that this development will not only help manage the trash problem but also improve security in the area, bringing a much-needed solution to the community.
Kinley Dem, Phuentshogling
