After decades of dryness, a long-forgotten lake in Khangma chiwog of Yurung Gewog in Pema Gatshel, is showing signs of revival. Last year, villagers carried out restoration work, and rainwater collected during the monsoon has been retained so far. This has offered hope for an alternative irrigation source during water shortages.
Gomtshang Chilo Lake, located atop Khangma Chiwog, had remained dry for decades.
No one exactly knows when or how the lake dried up.
Last year, villagers came together to clean and restore the area by removing debris.
The community has also tried diverting water from another source to support the lake.
Lungten Gyeltshen, a resident said, “We hoisted prayer flags around the lake, and performed rituals. With these rituals, we are hopeful that the lake will retain more water, especially since Upper Khangma faces serious water scarcity.”
Sangay Wangchuk, another resident said, “At first, we were doubtful whether the recharged water would dry up again. But since this is the natural lake site, the water has held. We are now committed to keeping the area clean, and all villagers are happy with the progress.”
Karma Zangmo, also a resident said, “We are very happy to see the water, even after four to five months without rain. Wild animals have also started coming to drink from the lake. We hope that by increasing the water level this coming summer, our dried-up water sources will revive again.”
The revival of this lake has become a crucial water source for crops, livestock, and households, ensuring the community can survive through harsh dry seasons.
Thinley Dorji, Pema Gatshel
