The people of Upper Khangma in Pema Gatshel have long awaited the revival of their ancient lake. This year, their hopes are finally turning into reality. The lake restoration project is in full swing and is expected to be completed by next month. Locals are optimistic that this effort will not only restore their long-lost water source but also serve as a sustainable solution for future water needs.
According to the village elders, a lake once existed in Gomchu Chilu, located above Khanhma Village, but dried up over time. No living resident has ever seen the lake with their own eyes, yet the terrain suggests that a body of water did once lie here.
Faced with growing water scarcity, the villagers have dreamed of recharging this area and bringing the lost lake back to life. That dream is now becoming a reality.
“This project had been proposed and included in our local development plan. We waited eagerly for a long time. Now that the budget has been allocated and the work is nearly complete, we feel deeply grateful,” said Phuntsho Wangdi, a resident of Khangma, Yurung Gewog, Pema Gatshel.
“After clearing the debris, rainwater began to collect here over just a few days. That gave us hope that this project would be truly beneficial. We believe the government’s investment in this effort will not go to waste,” said Karma Dorji, another resident.
Once the site was cleared, construction of a water retention tank began at the top of the area. Water has already started to accumulate in the old lake bed, and one side now holds visible water. Encouraged by this early progress, villagers believe the recharging process will be a success.
“Many villagers are delighted to see rainwater accumulating here. If the lake forms above the village, it will benefit everyone. But even if it forms in the middle, it will still support those living downstream, though perhaps not those above,” added Karma Dorji.
“In the past, we only heard stories about the lake, but never saw it. Now, after clearing the site, we’re seeing water collecting already. That gave us all hope and excitement. We believe the lake will be restored with a continuous water supply,” added Phuntsho Wangdi.
Securing government funding itself was a major milestone for the community. Villagers are confident that the restored lake will not only benefit them but also support the local wildlife.
“Our main goal is to revive the lake. There is potential to recharge two or more water sources in our village soon,” said Sangay Wangchuk, Khangma Tshogpa.
The water for this project will be sourced from Kheri, about 1.5 kilometres away. In addition to restoring the lake, the water will also be used for dryland irrigation.
The lake restoration is expected to be completed by next month, with a total project cost of Nu 1.5 M, funded by the Government of India. Around 50 households in the chiwog will benefit directly from this project.
Thinley Dorji, Pema Gatshel
Edited by Tandin Phuntsho
