In Merak Gewog in Trashigang, the community is struggling without a proper waste disposal site. Currently, the Gewog has two small dumping areas but both are completely filled. With improved road access and an increasing number of shops in the area, the waste issue is growing by the day.
Merak Gewog, home to approximately 360 households, generates about 3,000 to 4,000 kilograms of waste in a month. There are about 20 shops in the gewog and all of them sell packaged products.
As both the dumping areas are filled, people dump their waste near the dumping facilities.
Residents said this attracts animals, including dogs and cattle, which further scatter the waste, leading to environmental and health hazards.
Some individuals throw their waste in open areas, worsening the problem.
“This is Ama Jomo’s area, where we are hesitant to burn waste. At the same time, we are worried as our dumpsite is almost full and we don’t have other designated places to dump waste,” said Kezang Tenzin, a resident.
“We have been receiving a lot of visitors. Every month, we conduct a cleaning campaign. But we are facing difficulties without a proper dumping site,” said Tenzin Dorji, Merak Maed Tshogpa.
The Gewog officials are planning to relocate the dumpsite to a new area approximately eight kilometres from the village.
“In the future, we are going to relocate the dumping site. Last time, we identified a dumpsite at Wanggur along with park officials,” said Nima, Merak Gup.
Merak Gewog, in collaboration with the Trashigang district economic development officer, is in the process of procuring a waste-compressing machine. The machine will help reduce the volume of waste and open opportunities for waste recycling and selling.
Sonam Darjay, Trashigang
Edited by Tshering Zam
