After years of struggle, residents of the new Samdrupcholing township in Samdrup Jongkhar can finally turn on their water taps with a smile. The long-awaited water treatment plant is now operational, providing clean and reliable water to the township.
Relocation of residents from Tshangchhuthama to the new township began in 2019. It is located about 70 kilometres away from Samdrup Jongkhar town. Nine plot owners have constructed buildings so far, but residents depended on rivers and spring water due to the lack of a reliable water supply.
Now, the situation has changed with the completion of a water treatment plant. Although it was scheduled for completion in 2023, it became functional only last year, bringing a lasting solution.
Bhagawatti Gurung, a resident said, “I used drinking water from rivers and springs for two years. About four to five months ago, the government provided us with a water supply, and it is reliable now.”
Bishnu Maya, another resident said, “Earlier, the water supply here was not reliable. We used to pump water from spring water using motors, and had to change two to three motors every year. With the new water supply, the problem is solved; we sometimes need to carry out minor repairs. We have also appointed one person to look after it.”
Bhim Bahadur Tamang who is also a resident said, “The water is reliable now and enough for our needs. Before, we struggled to get water; we started receiving reliable water only a few months ago.
Apart from the water treatment plant, more than one and a half kilometre long water distribution network has also been constructed, ensuring clean water reaches residents.
The Nu 49 M treatment plant and distribution network is expected to benefit some 3,000 residents of Samdrupcholing township for years to come.
Kinley Wangchuk, Samdrup Jongkhar
