The vision of a mindfulness city in Gelephu isn’t starting with tall buildings or heavy machinery, but with bamboo scaffolds, the sound of tools, and the dedication of volunteers. Inside the new GMCA building, renovation work is in full swing as De-suups and Gyalsuups carefully take apart the old to prepare for the new. A key part of this effort is that all materials removed from the building will be reused in other projects.
In the heart of Gelephu, the first building project of the Gelephu Mindfulness City is taking shape, not only with hired crews, but with the hands of volunteers.
While Phuensum Builders, the local company contracted to renovate the structure, focuses on raising bamboo scaffolding to repair the building’s exterior, inside, another team is hard at work.
Ten De-suups from Gelephu, four women and six men, are the first volunteer group for this landmark project. Their job, to pack the items removed from the site, starting with these massive glass panes that once lined the front of the building.
“Our main reason for volunteering is to serve the Tsa-Wa-Sum. We are always ready to step forward whenever we are called, and we’ve been able to gather volunteers whenever needed. Above all, our deepest wish is to see our King’s vision fulfilled and this project succeed,” said Kezang Wangchuck, a de-suup volunteer.
They are joined by instructors and Gyalsuups from the Jigme Wangchuck Power Training Institute, all ensuring that every piece is saved and repurposed.
“Everyone is excited about the GMC project, and we feel truly fortunate to be part of its very first building. As Gyalsuups, it fills us with pride to contribute in our own way. Until now, we had not been able to do much for our country and government, but this opportunity allows us to give back, and that makes us deeply proud,” said Rinzin Nima, a gyalsuup.
Organised into specialised teams, they work with precision carpenters and masons guided by trainers, plumbers removing fixtures, and electricians dismantling lines. Nothing is discarded unless it cannot be saved.
“We have a masonry team carefully dismantling the UPVC door frames. The plumbing group has removed all the kitchen sinks and wash basins so they can be used again. Likewise, the electrical team is taking out sockets and wiring, while our carpentry team is focused on removing window frames, shutters, and ceilings,” said Yeshi Wangchuk, a carpenter trainer with Jigme Wangchuck Power Training Institute.
With a USD 2 M budget, the new hub will blend tradition with modernity, complete with visitor galleries, shared offices, smart boards, cooling systems, and a restaurant. Works are expected to be complete by the end of this year.
For now, the work is in careful hands. The walls may be changing, but the spirit, building this city, is already strong.
Passang Dorji, Gelephu
